Wester Gene "Ding Ding" Yates

Wester Gene “Ding Ding” Yates

August 8, 1960 – July 31, 2025

Wester Gene Yates, known to most as “Ding Ding,” passed away on July 31, 2025, at the age of 64, after fighting cancer for over a year. He was born on August 8, 1960.

Wester worked as a roofer and home repairman for his entire adult life, known for getting the job done and doing it his way. In his younger years, he enjoyed racing motocross and lived life on his own terms.

He was a member of Oak Grove Free Will Baptist Church and kept his faith close. He had a very close relationship with his mother, Joyce, and even though he didn’t always show it, he appreciated her more than words can express.

Wester is survived by his two children, Brandon Eugene Yates and Dixie Marie Yates; his mother, Joyce Elizabeth Yates; his brothers, Michael Ray Yates and wife, Rose, and Robert William “Bobby” Yates; his sisters, Pamela Ross Yates and husband, Jake Clem, and Sherri Lee McClenny; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He is also survived by his former wife, Sandra Kay Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harrell Ross Yates; his brother, Timothy Harrell “Timbo” Yates; and his sister, Theresa Carol Yates.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday August 5, 2025 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Oak Grove FWB Church followed by a funeral service at 3 p.m. Officiating will be Pastor Craig Farmer.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mr. Yates memory can be made to Oak Grove FWB Church, 303 S Mineral Springs Rd, Durham, NC 27703.