Joe Hugh Yates, age 71, went to be with the Lord comforted by his family on July 26, 2017. A true gentleman, Joe was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend.
A celebration of his life will be held today at 1 p.m. at Spry-Williams Funeral Home, Florence, with Brother Bryan McIntyre and Pastor Steve Huskey officiating. Pastor Josh Clayton will provide special music. The family will receive friends after the service until 3 p.m.
A 1963 graduate of Coffee High School, Joe graduated from the University of Alabama in 1967 and earned his law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law in 1969. He was a long-time trusted, local attorney known for his real estate practice and high level of integrity.
Joe was active in local organizations including the Civitans, Lions’ Club, and the Cattlemen’s Association as well as his churches. He was a passionate woodturning artist generously gifting his art to friends and many worthwhile causes. His greatest joy, however, was being “Papa” to his four grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father, Joel Yates, and mother, Louise Whitten Yates.
Survivors include his loving wife of 43 years, Nancy Kennedy Yates; daughters, Jennifer Yates Yarbrough (Ralph) and Julie Yates Stewart (Huston); grandchildren, Houston Yarbrough, Yates Yarbrough, Caroline Stewart, and Lily Stewart; and sisters, Nancy Yates Sultenfuss (Bill) and Rebecca Yates Doremus.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Joe H. Yates Memorial Fund c/o Killen United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 249, Killen, AL 35645.
You may sign the guest register at sprywilliams.com.
