It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. James Louis Oates, who unexpectedly left us on October 24, 2023. Known to many as “Goat”, he was born on July 3, 1957. James was an individual of authenticity, generosity, trustworthiness, and an affinity for fun. He was a simple soul but was a rich man because everybody he touched with love, loved him in return. His radiant personality shone through in his devotion to his family and friends, a legacy that will live on.
James most recently had a respectable career at the Guadalupe County Road and Bridge Department, proudly retiring in 2022. In his younger years, he worked as a mechanic and semi-truck driver. He spent countless hours rebuilding motors, fixing cars, and building things. He enjoyed the time spent in Wilburn Brown’s garage during the 1980’s building the award-winning tractor pull truck “Fantasy”. His many years as a truck driver were recognized as accident free, quite an accomplishment for all the miles he traveled across the country. His tireless work ethic was an example to all who knew him. Emphasizing the importance of a job done right, he passed this valuable lesson on to his children, teaching them about the gratification and rewards of hard work. It was during his career at Structural Metals Inc. that he was introduced to his lifelong friends and brothers including Henry “Tequila” Mertz, Ernest “Cowboy” Neumann, Reyes “Chainsaw” Castenalloz, Timothy “Dancing Bear” Sczech, and Larry “Gear Jammer” Jahns. Ultimately these men and their families meshed together creating an unbelievably strong, lifelong example of brotherly love and what it truly means to be a family.
James met the love of his life, Patty McFarland in 2007. The couple shared a vivacious love for one another that was like no other. They were most happy just being together and shared a love for animals, dancing, country music, good food, their family, and friends. Anyone that knew of James and Patty knew that they were each other’s soul mates. June 15, 2013, Patty unexpectedly suffered a major stroke and passed away leaving a void in James’ heart that many could agree would never be filled.
James is survived by his mother, Nellie Oates, his devoted sister, Linda and husband Allan Trial and nephew Scott Trial. His two cherished children; his daughter, Jennifer Horne and husband Glen Horne and his son, Christopher Oates and fiancé April Ferrell. His beloved granddaughter, Presley Hirsch was undoubtedly the apple of his eye. James leaves behind a brother, JJ Edwards. James also loved another brother, David McFarland and his wife Linda. Their children Cheyenne and Hunter were very dear to him and he looked after them as any good uncle should. James was predeceased by his father, Samuel Louis Oates.
The loss of James leaves a void that can never be filled. His authenticity and generosity made every interaction with him feel genuine and warm. He will be dearly missed, but his lessons, his love and his legacy will persist in the hearts of those he left behind. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date.