James Matthew Yelle, 56, of Toney, died at his home on Wednesday. Jim is survived by his daughter, Melissa Baldwin; granddaughter, Aurora Baldwin; siblings, Tom Yelle, Mary Warfield (Richard), Richard Yelle (Sylvia), Jean Mason (Larry), Ann Mangat; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Matthew Yelle and Ann Justine Yelle.
Jim was born in Pittsburg, PA and moved to Huntsville in his youth. He was an Auburn University graduate and a devoted fan of its sports and academic programs. He worked in software programming for banking systems for 30 years where he met lifelong friends.
Jim was baptized in 1984 as a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church where he taught Sunday school and Children’s Church. He was a loving father, a fun and gracious grandfather, and has been highly devoted to his family. He was an avid reader, enjoyed riding his SeaDoo with family, and loved a good laugh. Jim was known for yelling “War Eagle” to strangers and “Touchdown Auburn” even while watching a game in the hospital while ill. His voice will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, September 27, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. A memorial service will follow at 1 p.m. at the church with Bro. David Cochran officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Jim’s name to Hospice Family Care, 3304 Westmill Drive, Huntsville, AL 35805.
