Mr. Yates was born in LaGrange, Georgia on February 25, 1948, the son of the late Marjorie Elizabeth Powell Yates and Vernon Ray Yates. He was a Baptist by faith. After high school, he served honorably during the Vietnam Conflict in the United States Army. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his tremendous dedication when he was injured in battle. He also received the National Defense Service Medal, 1 o/s Bar, Vietnam service Medal w/2 Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/Device 1960, Sharpshooter (M-14), Expert (M-60), and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm Leaf. He was a member of the Masons, and Am vets. After serving his country he attended North Georgia Tech where he became a gifted machinist. After working to develop his skills he was employed by the Carroll Technical College where he was a teacher. He was much loved and respected by his students. The knowledge that they obtained under his very excellent supervision will continue to help them perform in the work force with excellent precision. His greatest joy in life, and what he felt was his greatest accomplishments were his children, and grandchildren. He will long be remembered by all who knew him.

His is survived by two daughters, Tammy Yates Mims (Chris), and Sandy Yates all of Franklin, GA.; son, Danny Yates (Amy) also of Franklin, GA.; brother, Donny Yates of MI; and four beloved grandchildren, Austin and Cody Yates, and Michael and Matthew Berry.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marjorie and Vernon Yates.