Larry Wayne Yates, age 66, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at Tri-Star Centennial Hospital Nashville. A resident of Cookeville and a Van Buren County native, he was born April 30, 1951 to Johnnie Rayborn Yates and Audrey Mae Hodges Yates who preceded him in death along with infant brother Johnnie Ray Yates. He was a member of Spencer First Baptist Church.
Larry spent his professional career as an educator in several positions with the Van Buren County School System. He was Superintendent of schools, principal, teacher and coach. After retiring from the school system, he was employed by the Van Buren County Assessor of Property as a Field Representative. Larry was always very helpful throughout the community and served as Chairman of the board for Hodges Cemetery.
He is survived by: sisters Joan (Marshall) Wilson of Sparta and Shirley (Jackie) Haley of McMinnville. Nieces: Sharon Wilson, Julia Moore and Jennifer (Marshall) Gilliam. Nephews Michael (Susan) Wilson. Grand Nieces: Brianna Wilson, Ireland Moore, Ashley Gilliam, Saylem Powell, and Savanna Quick. Grand Nephew: Caleb Wilson. Aunts: Catherine (Sewell) Barnes, Melba Bouldin, Emmogene Hodges. Uncles: Robert Yates and Carl Yates. He is also survived by many beloved cousins, friends, and extended family members.
Services will be held Sunday, February 4, 2018 at 2:00 PM at the Layne Funeral Home Chapel, Spencer, TN with Wayne Sullivan officiating. Burial will follow at Hodges Cemetery in Van Buren County. Visitation will be Saturday February 3rd from 4pm to 9pm and Sunday the 4th from 10am to time of service. In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the Hodges Cemetery Fund By contacting Teresa Sullivan at 945 Lemont-Yates Mountain Rd. Spencer, TN 38585.
Layne Funeral Home Spencer, Tennessee in charge of arrangements.
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