Rev. J. Clyde Yates

Rev. J. Clyde Yates, Jr., 82, who made his home in Salisbury the past 45 years and in the Gables Community since 2005, passed away February 5, 2013, in Trinity Oaks Lutheran Nursing Home. Clyde was born on February 13, 1930 in Wake Forest, NC, son of the late Rev. J. Clyde Yates, Sr. and Mrs. V.C. Yates. Clyde attended Mars Hill College, received his BA degree from Wake Forest University, a BD degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and an MA degree from Appalachian State University. Clyde completed the Pastoral Care Program at Baptist Hospital as well as studied at several other colleges and universities. From 1955-1969 Clyde pastored churches in Nash, Columbus and Greene Counties. From 1970-1992 he served numerous churches as interim pastor in Rowan, Cabarrus, and Davie Counties and taught special education in the Rowan-Salisbury school system. As a member of Milford Hills Baptist Church, he served as RA leader, Sunday school teacher, deacon, and worked on many church committees. For years he led a prison ministry here in Rowan County. As Director of the Rowan Southern Baptist Association Brotherhood, Clyde constructed churches, built Habitat houses and assisted in disaster relief both locally and around the world. Wherever there was a need, Clyde wanted to be there to help and to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. He enjoyed as a hobby wood work and was a member of the Wood Carver Club. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Frances Bullard Yates, son John Yates and his wife Ruth, their children Daniel, Laura, and Kyle of Austin, TX; daughter Mary Walser and her husband Charles, and their daughters Margaret and Hannah of Greensboro, NC; sisters Sarah Goare, Rachel Wall, Martha Brady, Phyllis Harvel, Elaine Rogers, Doris Rogers; brothers, Richard Yates and Robert Yates. The Yates family, including spouses, nieces and nephews, have been an example of how a large and close Christian family can bring blessings to others. Burial will be held on Saturday (Feb 9) in City Memorial Park (Salisbury) at 10:00 AM and will be followed by family visitation from 10:30 am to12:00 PM at Milford Hills Baptist Church. The memorial service will begin at noon at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Milford Hills Baptist Church, 1238 East Colonial Drive, Salisbury, NC 28144 or the donor’s choice. Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Yates family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhome.com.

Rev. J. Clyde Yates

February 13, 1930 - February 5, 2013