Jonathan David “John” Yates, 75, of Kernersville, NC passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.

A native of Princeton, WV, John was the husband of 40 years to Mary Thomas Yates and the son of Elbert James Yates and Vernia Marie Johnson Yates, both deceased. John was a devoted husband and father as well as dedicating many years of service to his country. He committed his life to serving for the United States Air Force during Vietnam and the United States Army upon his return. John also protected us at home for 18 years as a police officer (training officer) in the Greensboro community. He was a member of Main Street United Methodist Church in Kernersersville and was also a member of the Kernersville Masonic Lodge #669.

Survivors include:

His wife, Mary; three daughters, Beverly Tolbert, Dana Andrews and husband, Gordy, and Lauren Pace and husband, Seth; two sons, Jeffery Yates and wife, Jennifer, and Rhodney Yates.

Nine grandchildren, Kayla Wilson and husband, Ryan, Hayley Leonard and husband, Matt, Jessica Yates, Hannah Andrews, Emilie Jordan and husband, Joshua, Caroline Jones, Jordan Yates, Jonathan Jones, and Piper Pace.

Five great grandchildren, Addison Bowman, Rylee Wilson, Tanner Wilson, Jameson Leonard, and Juniper Jordan.

Two sisters, Judy Carter and husband, Tommy, and Beverly Yates; two brothers, Jerry Yates and wife, Marie, and Mark Yates and wife, Anitta; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will greet friends from 6:00PM to 8:00PM Monday, December 2, 2024, at Pierce-Jefferson Funeral Services, Kernersville, NC.

Funeral services celebrating John’s life will be held at 10:00AM Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at the Salisbury National Cemetery, 501 Statesville Blvd., Salisbury, NC 28144.

Friends and family may offer online condolences at www.piercejeffersonfh.com