James Lee Yoder

Retired U.S. Navy UT Chief, James L. Yoder, 73, a native of Bremen, Indiana and a longtime resident of Pass Christian, MS passed away Tuesday, August 7, 2012 after a brave battle with cancer. Mr. Yoder was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Yoder and Niece, Dawn Marbuger. He is survived by his Wife, Patricia (Pat) Yoder, Mother, Wilma Yoder, brother Denny Yoder, children, Ricky Gaston, Nathan Gaston, Anne Mikish (Mike), Teddy Gaston (Jan), Sue Parnes (Joe), and Charlie Gaston (Vicki), 14 grandchildren, Wendy Rocha (Steve), Chad Gaston (Tara), Michael Gaston, Terry Dorsey, Shelby Dorsey, Crystal Mikish, Cassie Gaston, Lindsey Gaston, Nathan Smith, Amy Henrie, Samantha Henrie, Taylor Gaston, Darian Thomas, B.J. Thomas, 13 great grandchildren and a niece Rayne Marburger. After retiring from the Navy, Jim worked for the U.S. State Department. He and Pat traveled extensively and lived in many countries including Poland, Czechoslovakia, El Salvador, San Salvador, Jordan, Russia, Cypress, and Belgium and he was associated with all European embassies. After Hurricane Katrina, Jim and Pat moved to Lakeland, FL where they have many friends. Jim was a loving husband and dad, and loved fishing and spending time with his family. He will be sadly missed but lovingly remembered by family and friends. Our loss is Heaven’s gain. Rest in peace, dear one. Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 14, 2012, at the Biloxi National Cemetery. Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is in charge of arrangements. View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com