Rex Yates

1939 - 2026

Rex Yates

Born: October 5, 1939 | Died: January 1, 2026

Rex Yates, age 86, of Tellico Plains, passed away peacefully at home on January 1, 2026. He was born on October 5, 1939, to Earnest and Rosa Yates and was a lifelong resident of the Tellico Plains community. Rex dedicated his life to education and service for 32 years. He began his career teaching for two years at Payne Station School. He then entered the U.S. Army, proudly serving his country. After his military service, Rex continued his calling in education at Coker Creek Elementary when it opened, serving as a teacher, principal, and basketball coach until his retirement in 1995. Near the end of his career, he also taught GED classes, helping adults achieve their educational goals and new opportunities. Beyond the classroom, Rex was a hardworking farmer and cattleman, and an avid grower of watermelons. He took great joy in caring for the land and sharing the fruits of his labor with family, friends, and neighbors. He was a faithful member of New Providence Baptist Church, where he found strength in his faith and friendships. Rex was married to the love of his life, Doris Gray Yates, for 59 wonderful years. Together they built a home filled with laughter, faith, and family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Doris; daughter Sharon (Jeff) Stone; son, Shawn (Candace) Yates; five beloved grandchildren: Ean Tate, Avery, Tatum, Grady, and Owen Yates; sister, Louise Harris of Tellico Plains; brother, Bob (Liz) Yates of Loudon; and several nephews. He was preceded in death by his infant son, Kent Myron Yates, parents, Earnest and Rosa Yates; and brothers Junior, Jack, and J.C. Yates. Rex will be remembered for his kindness, steady wisdom, and unwavering love for his family, school, and community. His influence will continue to live on in the many lives he touched. Funeral 7:00 P.M. Saturday, January 3, 2026, Biereley-Hale Chapel, Rev. Randy Brannon officiating. Interment 2:00 P.M. Sunday, New Providence Cemetery, Rev. Rick Atkins officiating. Family will receive friends 5-7:00 P.M. Saturday at Biereley-Hale Funeral Home, Tellico Plains.