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Thomas Yates Obituary
Dec 5, 1947 - Jun 20, 2025
Thomas "Tommy" Ervin Yates passed away peacefully at Forsyth Medical Center on June 20, 2025. Born in Forsyth County on December 5, 1947, Tommy was the son of the late Thomas Rodgers Yates and Louise Ervin Yates. A proud graduate of Parkland High School, he went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Army as part of the 229th Aviation, 1st Cavalry Division. His service in Vietnam from October 1968 to October 1969 was marked by bravery and sacrifice, and he was awarded the Purple Heart on June 9, 1969. Tommy continued his military service in Germany from 1970 to 1971 and attended the University of Maryland in Munich during his time abroad.
A true people person, Tommy had an innate gift for connecting with others. His love of conversation and his genuine nature made him a natural-born salesman, a role he embraced during his time with Color Carpet and NY Carpet World in Winston-Salem before retiring.
Tommy was also a talented artist with a unique flair for lettering and illustration. He was often seen doodling or creating handmade cards and notes, small works of art that became cherished keepsakes for friends and family. His passions included history, particularly World War II, remote control airplanes, and antiques. These interests reflected his curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for craftsmanship and storytelling.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Ted Yates; and his grandson, Elijah Darian Lahey. Tommy is survived by his loving daughter, Porsche Leigh Lahey; grandchildren, Alexis Lahey, Mason Dunnigan, and AuBrianna Bingman; close friend "Snuffy"; and many dear friends in the Meyers Family. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered by all who knew him.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Salem Funeral Home, 2951 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27106.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Lung Association, www.lung.org. Condolences may be shared online at www.salemfh.com.
Salem Funeral & Cremation Service
2951 Reynolda Rd., Winston-Salem, NC 27106
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Yates
Sponsored by Salem Funerals & Cremations - Reynolda Rd..
4 Entries
Jack Boles
June 28, 2025
Knew Tommy from Middle school through High school. As with most classmates he was a good friend. He will be missed Rip.
Jeff jones
June 27, 2025
My condolences to family and friends. Nice guy an Nam brothers. Gone but not forgotten. Rip brother.
Sharp hand salute.
HAYES BAXTER ADAMS
June 26, 2025
Tommy & I were friends, both attended Gray High School...Tommy, found a 56 Porsche Speedster Convertible.. Helped me get it for $1200... He restored some faded paper artwork for a 20's Antique Slot Machine...My Grtandmother gave me... We spent countless hours crusing Stratford Rd & Winston Nightlife...
Tony Yates
June 25, 2025
Love and sympathy.
Amigo...
I will miss our conversations.
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Salem Funerals & Cremations - Reynolda Rd.2951 Reynolda Rd., Winston-Salem, NC 27106
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