Michael Roy Yates of Mineola, Texas, took Jesus' hand as He led him into eternity on June 8, 2026.

Michael was born on September 4, 1944, in Newport, Arkansas, to Buster and Margie (Kelley) Yates. He spent his younger years in Mesquite, Texas, where he attended school.

On October 13, 1961, Michael joined the United States Air Force and attended basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. He served in a Transportation Squadron, which took him on his first tour during the Vietnam War. For his second tour, he volunteered for duty in Vietnam and served with the 553rd Reconnaissance Wing, known as the "Batcats." During this assignment, he participated in 101 missions providing reconnaissance support for U.S. military forces operating throughout Vietnam and Laos.

Following the Vietnam War, Michael continued his military career with exemplary service and retired in 1981 with the rank of Master Sergeant. His years of service took him to Texas, Maryland, Vietnam, Louisiana, Thailand, Japan, and Oklahoma. Among his many military honors and awards were the Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver Star and one Bronze Star, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.

After retiring from the Air Force, Michael worked for Security Finance in Altus, Oklahoma, before moving to East Texas. He later worked at the Kelly-Springfield/Goodyear Tire Plant in Tyler, Texas, where he remained until his retirement in 2006.

While Michael was proud of his military and professional accomplishments, the roles he cherished most were those of husband, dad, and "Papa." He was devoted to his beloved wife, Janis Kay Yates, and took great pride in his children and grandchildren. As "Papa," he gladly served as bus driver, food courier, chauffeur, and especially the family's doughnut delivery driver. His grandchildren knew they could always count on receiving his full attention, unwavering support, and unconditional love.

Michael enjoyed trap and skeet shooting, researching family history, and spending time with those he loved. Above all, he took great pride in being the best Papa he could be.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Buster and Margie Yates, and by his beloved wife, Janis Kay Yates.

Michael is survived by his son, James "Bo" Yates and wife Suzanne of Mineola, Texas; his daughter, Jennifer Yates-Nugent and husband Jason of Mineola, Texas; four treasured grandchildren, Kora Harvey, Michael Nugent, Carlie Nugent, and Tishy Hardin; and one great-grandson, Dakota Hardin.

Michael's legacy of service, dedication, and love for his family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.