Willard A. Yeates

Willard A. "Moose" Yeates, 79, of Clarksville, Virginia, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025, at Duke Regional Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on March 29, 1946, in Halifax, Virginia, Moose was the middle son of Ballad A. "Boozie" and Rosebud Yeates. He is survived by his older brother, Marvin Delmore, and was preceded in death by his younger brother, Timothy Ray.

A man of many hats, Moose was known for his creativity, vibrant humor, and the unique ability to bring energy and laughter wherever he went. Whether telling one of his favorite jokes, delivering a long and heartfelt blessing at a family meal, or signing off with his trademark "Try to behave," Moose brought warmth, wit, and joy to every moment.

He shared 58 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Patricia Yeates - a partnership grounded in love, laughter and unwavering devotion.

Moose was a proud and loving father to three daughters: Theresa Emmerman (Dan), Jennifer Williams, and Tracey Oliver. He delighted in being "Papa" to his grandchildren - Dylon, Sagan, Jacob, Payton, Hunter Kayla, Samantha, Jake, and Hannah - each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

Moose lived fully by the words he held close: Live, laugh, love. His legacy lives on in the stories, laughter, and love shared by his family and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

A celebration of his life will be held Thursday, April 24th, 1 pm at Jamieson Memorial Global Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to share a story, a memory, or a joke in his honor - just the way Moose would've liked it because there is a little less laughter in the world today.

Watkins Cooper Lyon Funeral Home is honored to serve the Yeates family and offers online condolences by visiting their website, www.watkinscooperlyon.com or by going to their Facebook page.