C.L. Ates

C.L. Ates, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 23, 2026, after a life well-lived. 

C.L. was born in Magee, MS, on April 8, 1939, the only son of Calton Lloyd and Addie Caroline Ates. Forever connected to his home state, C.L. spent his school years in Gulfport, MS, and graduated from Gulfport High School in 1957, where he is still remembered for his exploits as an outstanding lineman on the football team. C.L. attended the University of Southern Mississippi, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master of Business Administration. He worked for Mississippi Power Company and the Southern Company before moving to Ingalls Shipbuilding in 1969, where he was Manager of Computer Services for 31 years.

C.L. and Diane Cavanagh were married in 1963 and raised their family in Gautier, MS. C.L. was very active in the community, serving a decade on the Gautier Planning Commission, including as President, and nearly 20 years with Navigator Credit Union, with terms as Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary. He also helped establish the Mississippi Gulf Coast YMCA (11 years, founding Board of Directors), served on the U.S. Swimming Southern Association Board of Directors, and loved coaching little league football in Gautier.

C.L. had a wide range of interests and limitless curiosity but was happiest fishing the waters of the Gulf Coast, laughing with lifelong friends, and making lasting memories with Diane and his extended family. The fishing trips were legendary, and his love for his family was evident to all.

C.L.’s warmth, humor, and wisdom will be remembered by his many friends, colleagues, and cherished family, including his wife of 62 years, Diane; son, Steve and daughter-in-law, Lori; son, John and daughter-in-law, Kerry; grandchildren, Kristin, Alyssa, Steven, Lily, William, Calton, and Ashley; four great-grandchildren; and many very close cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, David and sisters, Juanita Blow and Jimmie Nell Upton.

Services will be held at Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home in Ocean Springs, MS on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, with visitation at 11:00 a.m. followed by a service at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Nourishing Place, P.O. Box 7785, Gulfport, MS 39506.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of C.L. Ates.