Raymond D. Yates

Raymond Douglas "Ray" Yates Sr. 73, a resident of Wright, died Wednesday, August 17, 2011, at his home. Born February 20, 1938, in Yancopin, Arkansas, he was a son of Willie and Lydia Mae Rowe Yates. Mr. Yates was reared and received his early education in Watson. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Science, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from Arkansas State University. Mr. Yates was a United States Air Force veteran of Korea and Vietnam where he earned a Bronze Star. He was a water plant operator for East Prairie Water Company in East Prairie and Cotton Plant, retiring in 1999. He was also a retired farmer. Mr. Yates attended the Church of God of Prophesy. Mr. Yates was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, and one brother. Survivors include four sons; Raymond D. Yates, Jr. of Wright, Mike Yates of Ponca City, Oklahoma, Will Yates of White Hall, and Kevin Yates of El Paso, Texas; two daughters, Judy Chambers of White Hall, and Christi Partain of Vilonia; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; six brothers; two sisters. The visitation was from 6-8 p.m., Friday, August 19, 2011, at Ralph Robinson & Son. Funeral services were at 4:00 PM Saturday, August 20, 2011, in the Chapel of Ralph Robinson & Son with Reverend Kenneth Ripper officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow in Watson Cemetery at Watson, Arkansas, by Ralph Robinson & Son. Online register at:www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.