JOHN SELLERS YATES Jr.

YATES, John Sellers Jr. Passed away peacefully, on April 29, 2025, at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, several days after a sudden cardiac event. He was 73. Surrounded by his family and closest friends, his final moments were marked by heartfelt stories and reflections on the joy and inspiration he brought to those around him. Born on April 3, 1952, in England while his father studied languages under the G.I. Bill, John spent his early years on Staten Island, before moving with his family to Central Park West in New York City. He attended the French Lycée School, where his mischievous spirit became legendary among classmates. John was the eldest of five siblings, and their shared summers at European camps-often working, for example, as oyster diggers and shuckers on the French coast-became the source of many cherished family tales. A self-taught learner with an insatiable curiosity, John discovered a passion for computers early in life. Though he briefly attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, it was his discovery of an early coding manual that launched a prolific career in software development. Over the years, he was awarded more than 35 patents and became a valued mentor to many in his field, known for his storytelling and eagerness to exchange ideas. In the late 1980s, John met his life partner, Ellen, through personal ads-a decision that led to a 36-year marriage and two children. He embraced fatherhood with devotion, serving as a confidant, tutor and occasional prankster. After raising their family in Concord, MA, John and Ellen moved to Boston's South End. A lifelong supporter of the arts, he relished attending performances and sharing meals with loved ones. John will be laid to rest later this year in his family's burial site in Leeds, Virginia. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

View the online memorial for John Sellers Jr. YATES