Thomas Ray Yates

Thomas Ray Yates, was born August 29,1943 in Olustee, Oklahoma to Lonnie Dean and Lillie Mae Yates. He transitioned peacefully from his earthly body to his eternal one on January 9,2024 in Overton, Texas.
Thomas attended Gilmer High School, in Gilmer Texas, and participated in many sports during his time there.
He was joined in marriage with the love of his life, Donnie on April 25, 1964. They shared 59 years of marriage and building a family.
Thomas was known for his caring and loving nature with people, especially his family. He led by example in all aspects of his life, especially his dedication to the Lord, and was apparent to all that knew him. He was a member of East Side Baptist Church in Jacksonville, and an ordained baptist deacon.
He was also known for his strong work ethic and his abilities. Working as a diesel mechanic, equipment operator and welder for many years.
Thomas had many interests including fishing, hunting, listening to gospel music, high school football, especially the Alto Yellow Jackets, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Houston Astros. He also had a deep love for his pets especially his dogs over the years.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie Dean and Lillie Mae Yates. His dear and special grandmother, Grandma Moon; father and mother in-law, Mervin and Estel Pyle; brother, Jesse Edwards Yates; and in-laws, Kenneth and Martha Pyle, Charles Pyle, Jimmy Nell Pyle, Westley Lagrone, and Damon Long; along with his beloved son-in-law Brian Tracie Parker.
Left to cherish his memories are his wife, Donnie Cardelia Yates; siblings, Lonnie Gean Yates and wife Lou, Letha Mae Miller and husband Bud; in-laws, Rhonda Yates, Sherry Knox and husband Billy Joe, and Ann Pyle. Daughter, Rhonda J. Parker; son Steven Ray Yates and wife Ana. Grandchildren; Steven Ross Yates and wife Jayanna, Michael Parker and wife Misti, Haley Vineyard and husband Jeremy, Rowdy Yates, Rascal Yates, and Ruff Yates; twelve great-grand children and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.
Celebration of life services will be Friday January 12th at East Side Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Texas. Visitation beginning at 10:30 am and Service at 12:00 Noon. Graveside service to follow directly after at New Energy Cemetery in Houston County. Bro. James Durham officiating the service. Speakers will be, Bro. Charles Pyle, Steven Ross Yates and Michael Parker. Pallbearers will be, Rowdy Yates, Rascal Yates, Ruff Yates, Jeremy Vineyard, Jimmy Pyle, and Kenneth Yates. Allen Funeral Services of Alto will be handling the arrangements.
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