Tommy Yates

Tommy Michael Yates, born in Mineral Wells, Texas, November 8, 1947, went home to his Lord on Wednesday, December 12th in Weatherford, Texas. He was the son of Alice Harris Yates and J.D. Yates. He graduated from Mineral Wells High School in 1966 and proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corp as an infantry man walking point daily in the Quang Tree Province of Viet Nam on the Laotian Border. He was a Sergeant E-5 and earned the National Defense Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Meritorious Mast and RVNMUC Gallantry Cross w/ Palm and Frame. Tommy had a long career in the outdoor advertising industry and also worked for Upham Oil & Gas. Tommy had a love for Texas Longhorns and was a lifetime member of the Texas Longhorn Breeders Association. He judged Longhorn shows in many states across the U.S. as well as the Calgary Stampede in Canada. Tommy is survived by his wife Norma Porter Yates of Weatherford, Texas, son, Michael T. Yates of Austin, Texas, daughter Shelby and husband Wes Genz of Weatherford, Texas and son Robert Freeman of Mineral Wells, Texas. He is also survived by a sister, Betty Barnes of Bakersville, California and three nieces Michelle, Dawn and D' Anna, along with their children. Tommy is also survived by his best friend, and former business partner, Jim Odom of North Richland Hills, Texas whom Tommy considered a brother. Tommy's kind heart, and giving nature, will be sorely missed by all that knew him. A memorial service will be held at 10 AM on Monday, December 17 at the Fairview Baptist Church in Mineral Wells, Texas with Pastor Travis McGaughey officiating.