Cairo native James Oates is honored at the grand opening ceremony of James O. Oates Park in Dothan, Ala., on April 8.

CAIRO — A Cairo native will forever have his name honored in a city where he’s made a significant impact.

On April 8, James Oates, who has spent most of his career serving in recreation departments in Georgia and Alabama, was honored with the grand opening of James O. Oates Park in Dothan, Ala.

The facility bearing Oates’ name features youth baseball and softball complexes, a walking and biking trail and a playground.

Oates was an athlete during his time at Cairo High School, where he graduated from in 1955. One of his biggest mentors during his time there was legendary track and field coach Tommy Taylor.

He graduated from Georgia Southern College with a degree in physical education, and worked summers in Cairo’s recreation department.

He served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1961-1968, and he took multiple recreation positions in Georgia — in Dalton in 1962 and Carrollton in 1964. He became the first director of the Cobb County Parks and Recreation department in 1966.

In 1977, he made the move out of his home state, becoming the director of Dothan Leisure Services. During his time in southeast Alabama, he was the head of many different projects, playing a big part in molding Dothan’s recreation department to what it is today. He held that position until 1998.

During his career, he served as recreation and parks association president in both Georgia and Alabama, also winning recreation professional of the year honors in both states.