Joel Yates

Joel Yates, age, 56, of Pounding Mill, Virginia passed away Thursday (January 1, 2026) at Carilion Tazewell Community Hospital. Born July 23, 1969 in Richlands, Virginia, he was a son of Janet Sue Looney Yates and the late Troy Yates. A lifelong resident of the area, he was a 1987 graduate of Grundy High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy in the Persian Gulf, during Desert Storm. He enjoyed riding his Mustang and his motorcycle, listening to music and spending time with his dogs.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Orman Harris; his brother-in-law, Junior Harris and his grandparents.

Survivors, in addition to his mother, include his wife of thirty-two years, Rita Yates of the home; one daughter, Brittany Yates and fiancé, Chris LaVallee of North Bridge, Massachusetts; brother, Bobby Yates and wife, Stephanie of Abingdon, Virginia; sister, Alicia O'Quinn and husband, Bobby of Vansant, Virginia; mother-in-law, Ruby Harris of Oakwood, Virginia; his special K-9 companions, Zeus, Bella and Toby; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2 PM Sunday in the Honaker Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Anthony Hale officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 PM until 2 PM.

Military honors will be conducted by Casey Shortt VFW Post #9640 of Richlands, Virginia.