Virginia Beach - James Edward Kates Jr., 63, departed this life on Monday, December 1, 2014.

James Edward (Eddie) Kates Jr. was born on March 17, 1951 in Eskdale, West Virginia. James was affectionately known as Poppy and Eddie to his family and friends. Eddie was born in Eskdale, West Virginia to the late James and Josephine Kates. He lived most of his early life in West Virginia, where he accepted Christ at an early age, excelled in sports and was employed at Libby Owens Glass plant and later at Madison Mines. He later moved to Virginia Beach, Virginia with his family until the time of his passing. Eddie met and married his childhood sweetheart Phyllis in July of 1972, and from this union two beautiful daughters where born Tara and Jamie Kates.

Eddie was employed by the city of Chesapeake, Virginia where he worked until retirement.

Eddie loved his family. He truly lived his life the way he wanted. The joys of his life were his children and grandchildren. The love of his life was his devoted and loving wife, Phyllis.

His zest for life was contagious. Eddie always made everyone laugh with his tell like it is attitude. He truly made those around him smile.

Eddie was preceded in death by his daughter Jaime, brother Henry, sister-in-law Angie Lee, brother-in-law Harry Torain Sr., and parents James and Josephine Kates.

Eddie is survived by his loving wife Phyllis of 43 years, daughters, Tara Banks (Greg) and Nyjah, grandsons Joshua, Justin and Jordan Lucas all of Chesapeake; sisters Eleanor Torain,Mary Clarke and his brother Floyd Kates of Maryland; loving nieces Christine Torain and Tracy Lee; nephews Harry L. Torain Jr., Ronald Russell, Kenny Russell, Bill Russell, Shawn Lee, Kevin Kates, Tyrone and Floyd Kates Jr.; Goddaughter Shazma and a host of great nieces and nephews.

A service will be held on 11:00 a.m. Monday at Roosevelt Memorial Park in the Mausoleum, 1101 Campostella Road, Chesapeake. Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake is in charge of arrangements.