Jerry L. Yates

Jerry L. Yates, 77, of Kingsport, passed away on Wednesday, October 12, 2016, at
Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center after a long illness of acute myeloid leukemia.

He was born in Cross Plains, TN, September 21, 1939, as the sixth child of Herman and Azzie Lee Yates. He graduated from East Robertson High School in 1957, from Martin Methodist College in 1959, and George Peabody College in 1961. He was an underwriter at USF&G Insurance Company for 12 years and an Agent for Bennett & Edwards Insurance Agency for 25 years.

Jerry served as president of Insurers of Kingsport, President of Colonial Heights Optimist Club, Lt. Governor and life member of Tennessee District of Optimist International, and served on the Board of Directors of The Downtown Kingsport Association. He was an active member of Mafair United Methodist Church and the Loyalty Sunday School Class as well as a number of community organizations throughout the years. He enjoyed his family, friends, all sports, and his many travels.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife and the mother of his children, Leilani Yates; sisters, Launa Jones Overbey and Roberta Jones; and brothers, Herman Yates, Jr., Robert Yates, and Dr. Donald Yates.

Jerry is survived by his second wife, Ruth Ann Owens Yates of the home; children, William A. Yates of Nashville, Timothy R. Yates (Kathy) of Knoxville, and Todd L. Yates (Leslie) of Gallatin, Susan Fulwiler and Michael Owens (Debbie) of Kingsport, and Jane Owens of Nashville; grandchildren, Afton Yates of Chattanooga, Victoria Goldston (Alex) and Madison Yates (Sarah) of Cleveland, TN; Hunter and Carson Yates of Gallatin, TN; grandchildren, Dr. Kristen Pumphrey (Zach) of Johnson City and Whitney Bean APRN (Brandon) of Knoxville; great-grandchildren, Carter Alexander and Cason Goldston; great-grandchildren, Addison Reese, Owen Brooks Pumphrey, Micah Grant, Hudson Carter Bean, and Caroline Sproles; sister-in-law, Elsie Yates of Cleveland; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family will receive friends on Sunday from 1 to 3:00 p.m. at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. The service will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Amy Probst officiating.

A private family graveside service will be held. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Loyalty Sunday School Class.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Mafair United Methodist Church, 1409 E. Center St., Kingsport, TN 37664.