Gerald Francis Yost

Gerald "Gerry" Francis Yost, a man whose stubbornness was matched only by his love for his family, set sail on his final voyage on July 9, 2025, at the age of 82. Born in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania on December 6, 1942, Gerry eventually dropped anchor in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where he spent his remaining days.
Gerry had many stories of his youth that would be akin to Huckleberry Finn. While his formative years were hard, he found a way to have fun and cause a bit of mischief. He could be found fishing in the hatchery, following coal trains to gather coal to heat his home, getting into fights dealing with bullies, or being a caddy for the local golf course to help provide for his family.
Gerry dedicated 30 years of his life to the United States Navy, retiring as a Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate (BMCS). His time in the Navy honed his skills in leadership, discipline, and the fine art of yelling at people with purpose. These skills translated seamlessly into his second career as a stay-at-home dad-a role he embraced with military precision and a sense of humor that could light up even the stormiest sea.
After retiring from the Navy, Gerry found great joy in being involved in his family's life. He relished taking his kids to scouts and karate, ensuring they were as disciplined (or at least as punctual) as he was. A maestro in the kitchen, Gerry loved cooking for his family, firmly believing that the quickest way to anyone's heart was through a well-prepared meal.
Gerry was an avid hunter, often heading into the woods with his son, Jason. He took his wife, Yhonie, hunting once, but after she accidentally turned his beloved truck into Swiss cheese, he decided her talents were better suited elsewhere. Nonetheless, he adored gardening and doing yard work with Yhonie, finding peace and tranquility in nature.
Deeply spiritual, Gerry held on to his Catholic beliefs wholeheartedly but preferred his own unique take on spirituality, which included a healthy dose of wit and wisdom.
Gerry was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Gerald Francis Yost Jr. He is survived by his loving wife of over 43 years, Yhonie Yost; his son, Jason Yost, and wife Natali; his daughter, Joanne Truitt, and husband Matthew; and four grandchildren who were the apples of his eye: Jonathan, Trenton, Aiden, and Cecelia. He also leaves behind his furry best friend (dog) and partner in crime, Leah.
A celebration of life will be held on July 28, 2025, at Family Choice Funerals & Cremations beginning at 12 noon. Burial will follow at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery at 3 pm, where military honors will render a fitting farewell to a man who served his country with pride.
In the end, Gerry's life was a testament to love, laughter, and a little bit of stubbornness-qualities that will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Fair winds and following seas, Gerry. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gerald, please visit our floral store.