Thomas Jean Yates

On Tuesday evening, September 14, 2021, Thomas Jean Yates passed away at 93 years of age. After a tough battle with pneumonia following a surgery, he passed peacefully with two sons at his side.

Tom was born July 12, 1928, in Obine County, TN. He was married to Betty Lou Johnson for over 50 years, the love of his life.

Tom served in the Army in Korea during the war where he received a Korean Service Medal and was awarded two Bronze Stars, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. After graduating from the University of Kentucky, with a degree in Electrical Engineering, he worked for the Rural Electrification Assoc. to bring electric power to underserved communities. He then continued to protect our nation in Huntsville, Alabama by working in the Army in Missile Defense.

After retirement, Tom loved to travel wiith his wife, Betty, spend time with his grandchildren (especially at the Huntsville Botanical Garden), was a life-long fan of Kentucky Basketball, an avid gardener, and was active at Latham UMC volunteering his time and efforts.

Tom will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his brother, Donald Yates, sister, Alice Eyler, his four sons, Doug Yates and wife Dottie, John Yates and wife Peggy, David Yates and Glen Yates and wife Cindy, as well as 11 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Andrew, Chris , Cade, Dovie, Lauren, Michael, Steven, Emily, Corbin, Jackson, and Margaret.

He was preceded in death by his parents Boyd and Carrie Yates, his cherished and beloved wife Bitty, his brothers Boyd Yates, Jr., James (Sonny) Yates and sister Rosalind Clack.

A Celebration of Tom's life will be held at Latham United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 18th with visitation at 10 am and service at 11 am. A short graveside service will be held on Sunday the 19th at 2 pm at Hampton Cove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

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