George E. Yates

Mr. George E. Yates, Jr., age 72, of Pompano Beach, Florida, and West Jefferson, North Carolina, passed away September 25, 2023, at his son's home in Florida.
Funeral mass service will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024, 12pm at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Jefferson. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Mr. Yates was born in Ft. Lauderdale, FL on March 28, 1951, to the late George Yates, Sr and Betty Allen. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Leslie Berg Yates; two brothers, Terry Brown and Robert Yates.
He is survived by: a son, Michael Yates; a daughter, Shannon Yates; three grandchildren, Madison, Kaitlyn and Matthew Yates.
George was a man of many passions and achievements. After collage he began his career as a schoolteacher at a Catholic Orphanage in Covington, KY. In the late 70's, George moved back to West Jefferson to help his ill father with the family business, Yates Produce Co. Mr. Yates worked for many years selling wholesale fruit and vegetable crops for farmers in Ashe County and throughout the southeastern United States. George served as an Ashe County Commissioner and was instrumental in the building of the Ashe County's new courthouse, and the Ashe County High School, which brought improved educational opportunities to the children of Ashe County.
George was an active member of St Francis of Assisi in Jefferson and St. Coleman's in Ft. Lauderdale. Faith was a guiding force in his life, which was evident in the love and kindness he shared with many.George's greatest passion was spending time with his family. His grandchildren were the apple ofhis eye, and he took every opportunity to be involved in their lives.
He was a loving father and grandfather, always supportive and encouraging to his family and friends.
Psalm 91-2 ( I will say to the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.")
WE LOVE YOU, PAPAW !!