Byron Neal "Butch" Yates

Byron Neal "Butch" Yates, 74, of Caney, OK, passed away on February 16, 2026. Born on July 31, 1951, in Caney, OK, Butch entered the world right after his mother, Ruby, spent the whole day working in the hay field. If that wasn't the perfect preview of the stubborn, mischievous man he'd become, we don't know what is.

Butch worked in roadway construction for most of his life, helping build, shape, and smooth the roads that so many people travel every day. He liked to be crafty, designing things with his hands and, on occasion, probably breaking a few things with them too. He had a lifelong love of the outdoors-whether he was exploring, or simply enjoying a quiet moment outside, nature was where he felt most at ease.

He was also a man who quietly loved to write. From notes and reflections to thoughts he never intended anyone else to see, writing was one of the ways he processed life, found humor in it, and made sense of the world around him.

In his younger years, he was a pretty decent drummer, the kind who kept the beat steady and the neighbors slightly annoyed. He loved music, his dogs, and, when the mood struck him, even people. He had a knack for noticing the small joys in life and reminding everyone else to be thankful for their blessings too.

He is preceded in death by his life partner, Chris, who shared in his laughter, his stubbornness, and his best stories. Losing Chris was one of the deepest heartbreaks of his life, and those who knew him could see how he carried that love and memory with him every single day. He loved his sisters, brother, nieces, and nephews fiercely-though he'd likely never admit it without a well-timed joke to soften the sentiment. His presence, his humor, and his ability to turn even a slow day into a memorable one will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his sister, Pamela (Pammy Sue) Nutter of Caney, OK, along with many nieces and nephews who will carry his stories, his jokes, and his memory of being "Uncle B" for the rest of their lives.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Ruby Yates; father, Walter (Kid) Yates; life partner Chris Hardy; sister, Sybil (Satch) Adams; brother, Bobby (Big Mouth) Yates; sister, Noble (Big Lucy) Blankenship; and sister, Juana (Sis) Grubbs-no doubt all waiting to welcome him home with open arms and probably a little good-natured teasing.

A small graveside service will be held by the family at 1:00 PM on Monday, February 23rd, 2026 at the Perkins Cemetery in Caney, OK, where loved ones will gather to honor a man who made life a little louder, a little funnier, and a lot more meaningful.

Arrangements are under the direction of Brown's Durant Funeral and Cremation Service.