James Dale Cates

James "Dale" Cates, was born March 15, 1957 to James and Linda Cates in Mexia, Texas. Raised on a small dairy farm in Buffalo, Texas, Dale developed his strong sense of work ethic at a young age. After graduating from Buffalo High School in 1975, he began working as the manager of the Dairy Queen in Fairfield, Texas. In January of 1977, Dale hired Lisa Ann Barker, fell in love with her, and they married on October 8, 1977. They welcomed their precious daughter Stephanie Dale to the world in February 1980. His pride and joy, his granddaughter Lydia Danielle, was born in January 2011. Dale was at his happiest when he was spending time with his family.

Known for his keen business sense and quick sense of humor, Dale's presence in the oilfield was known the world over. Starting as a warehouse hand in June 1980, he rapidly climbed the ladder with his career spanning through sales, management, and international sales. Not only did he develop business relationships, but he formed friendships that spanned decades.

A talented musician, Dale began playing the piano as a young child. He followed in the footsteps of his music idol, Jerry Lee Lewis, and even performed in a band during the 1980s. His love of music did not stop with the piano. Southern Gospel was dear to his heart, and he also jockeyed the gospel radio program at the local station in Fairfield, Texas in the mid '80s. He passed his love of music on to his daughter, who also became an accomplished musician, and his granddaughter, who is well on her way. Dale joined with the Lord on May 28, 2023 while living in Longview, Texas. He leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Lisa Cates, daughter Stephanie Cates, and granddaughter Lydia Cates, all of Longview.

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