Willis Yates

Born on July 23, 1954, to the late Mr. John Yates and Mrs. Helen Moore-Yates residing in Terry, MS. Willis Yates. affectionately known as "Will," peacefully made his transition on Wednesday. July 29, 2026, at 11:35 p.m., surrounded by his loving family.

Will was raised in the Terry community where he accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized a Terry Grove Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor E. W. Cornelius.

He was blessed with three children: Carlos Lockhart who precedes him in death, Marcus Yates, Sr. and Patricia Yates.

Will received his education at Perryman Elementary, Sumner Hill High School, and graduated from Terry High School.

He worked for many years as a roofing contractor, specializing in both commercial and residential construction. Later he joined Hinds County Schools, where he faithfully served in janitorial management until his retirement.

Will leaves to cherish his precious memories his devoted children, Marcus Yates, Sr. (Chanika) of Port Allen, LA and Patricia Yates of Crystal Springs, MS; his beloved grandchildren, Delondra Yates, Tamia Yates, both of Crystal Springs, MS; Marcus Yates, Jr, of Spokane, WA, and Jaqavius Yates of Birmingham, AL; his beloved great-grandchildren: Cayden, Reagon, Chloe, Cameron a Kamarriah Yates all of Crystal Springs, MS.

He is also survived by his brothers, Johnny Yates, Sr. (Delphine) of Jackson, MS. and Jerry Floyd of Clinton, MS; his sisters, Marie Yates Bingham, (Benard) and Mable Yates Butler, both of Jackson, MS. 

Wil also leaves behind his extended family. Bonnie Holly and Marie "Candy" Allen of Terry, MS and Curtis (Edith) Holly and Willie Holly of Byram, MS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Carlos Lockhart, and his sisters, Bessie Yate Alford, Melissa Yates, Anita Floyd, and Margaret Louise Yates Taylor:

The family extends special acknowledgment to his devoted nieces, Mrs. Helen Danette Alford-Hill and Ms. Veronica Bozeman, for their love and support.

Will also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephew: cousins, other relatives, and dear friends, including his brother-in-law, Payton Taylor Sr. of Jackson, Ms.