James "Jimmy" J. Nates, Sr., 87, of Irmo, died Sunday, April 16, 2023. Born June 9, 1935, in Spartanburg, SC, he was a son of the late John Wesley and Ruth Ogg Nates.

Jimmy grew up in Columbia and graduated from Dreher High School. While in high school, he excelled in Track & Field and was a runner up state champion in the Shot Put. Jimmy graduated from The Cincinnati School of Embalming in 1958 and worked for several years in the funeral industry. He left the funeral industry to pursue a career with Lightsey Toy Company, where he was employed for over 20 years until accepting a position with H.T. Hackney Company. Jimmy would eventually retire after 28 years with H.T. Hackney Company, at the age of 82, when they closed the Columbia operation center. He honorably served his country as a member of the South Carolina Air National Guard under the supervision of Brigadier General Barnie B. McEntire, Jr. at the former Congaree Army Airfield. Jimmy enjoyed hard work, the occasional vacation to the Outer Banks, and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his sons, Jeff (Karen), Joe, and Andy Nates; grandchildren, Stuart (Kayla) and Hannah Nates; as well as his great granddaughter, Amelia Aurora Nates. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Elizabeth Anne Pitts Nates; brother, John Ogg Nates; and sister, Margaret Nates Jepson.

The family will host a private celebration of life at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Prisma Health SeniorCare (PACE), 3555 Harden Street Ext., Suite 203, Columbia, SC, 29203.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.