William Lombard Yates Obituary, ROCKWELL, N.C. — William Lombard Yates, 87, of Rockwell, North Carolina, passed away on September 29, 2026, leaving behind family and loved ones who will remember him for the life he shared with those around him.
Yates was born on July 26, 1939, in Burke County, North Carolina, to William and Dorothy Lombard Yates. His life was rooted in North Carolina, where he built a family and a career while maintaining interests that brought him enjoyment throughout the years.
He worked as a clerk for the Rowan County ABC Board. Outside of work, Yates enjoyed fishing, deer hunting and riding motorcycles with friends. He also valued spending time with his family and the relationships he developed throughout his life.
Yates was preceded in death by his son, Billy Yates, and his sister, Dottie Kearns. Their loss formed part of the family history he carried with him through his later years.
He is survived by his wife, Joan Yates, whom he married in 1958, along with his children, Annette Reavis and Michael Yates. He is also survived by four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who will continue to carry his memory forward.
Family and friends will have an opportunity to pay their respects during visitation scheduled for Friday, October 2, 2026, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Powles Staton Funeral Home in Rockwell.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to Shriners Children’s Hospital in William’s memory. His life and legacy will remain with his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and friends who knew and loved him.
