J.W. Yates grew up in a small town in Mississippi, had a traditional Christian upbringing, and has since worshiped and studied with a number of Christian denominations and spiritual groups.
He attended the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) under the Regular Navy ROTC program, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, was commissioned upon graduation, traveled extensively on active duty with the Navy, both around this country and around the world, and is a veteran of Vietnam.
Following active duty, he returned to Ole Miss, earned a master’s degree in urban and regional planning, and a doctorate (J.D.) in law, practiced professionally, and served in related positions in business and government.
He is member, among others, of American Mensa, the National Eagle Scout Association, the Mississippi Bar, and the State Bar of Texas.
He is currently semi-retired, and lives with his wife, Mary, and two ten-year-old Pomeranian puppies.
His email address is: jwyates.author@ yahoo.com.