James Emerson Coates

James Emerson Coates, age 84, of Kershaw, S.C., passed away Thursday afternoon, April 16, 2026, at his home. Born in Kershaw, he was the son of the late John Edward “Eddie” Coates and Nettie Belle Catoe Coates.

Mr. Coates dedicated his entire life to law enforcement, serving a distinguished 38-year career, many of those years with the ABC Commission. He also served as Chief of Police for the Town of Kershaw. Following his retirement, he enjoyed working with J.G. Environmental Services in Kershaw. He was a member of Beaver Creek Presbyterian Church and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah Patsy “Pat” H. Coates; his son, Shean Coates (Susan); his daughter, Anna Brooks (Stephen); his stepdaughter, Gina Ratcliff; two stepsons, Dennis Faulkenberry (Cathy) and Alan Faulkenberry; his grandchildren, Garrett Coates (Jaimie), Katie Whetstone (Adam), Raegan Ella Brooks, Jarad Ratcliff and Scott Faulkenberry; three great grandchildren, Elliott Coates, Abigail Coates and Easton Whetstone; two sisters-in-law, Linda Coates and Wanda Coates; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Katie Ray Coates; son, John Walton Coates; his stepson, Tim C. Faulkenberry; a grandson, Jason Faulkenberry; two sisters, Johnnie C. Gardner and Mildred C. Simpson; and five brothers, Oscar Coates, Bill Coates, Elmer T. “Cotton” Coats, Harold Coates, and Joel Coates.

A service to celebrate his life will be held Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel of Baker Funeral Home, 210 East Hilton Street, Kershaw, S.C. Pastor Rhonda McClain and Rev. Rodney Foster will officiate.

The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made in memory of Mr. Coates to Beaver Creek Presbyterian Church, 1928 Kershaw County Club Road, Kershaw, S.C. 29067 or Heart of Hospice, 901 West Meeting Street, Suite 104, Lancaster, S.C. 29720.

Arrangements are under the care of Baker Funeral Home, Kershaw, S.C.