Gerald Michael Yates

After a long battle with cancer, Gerald Michael Yates went to be with the Lord on Dec. 22, 2014, in Sumterville, Florida, at the age of 72.

He leaves behind his wife of 51 years, Judy Yates; his daughter, Ginger Christensen, husband, Clinton, and children Aaron, Hunter and Merrick; and his son, Darin Yates, wife, Chanda, stepson, Jacob and daughter, Victoria.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elton and Lenora Yates, his sister, Carmen Craiger; and his brother, Michael Yates.

He was born Deb. 12, 1942, and was lovingly known as “Jerry” his whole life. Jerry was a driven professional and family man with a great love of teaching kids. He enjoyed big game hunting, fishing, coaching basketball, studying history and the Bible, as well as watching his kids and grandkids grow up.

Jerry and Judy had made many dear friends over the years teaching in Alaska, in retirement, and in their Florida and Alaska church families. He remained a brave, iron-willed man with a great sense of humor, even throughout his final months.

Jerry’s ashes will be interred at the family plot in the Crestlawn Cemetery, Vero Beach, Florida. He has requested not to have a funeral in light of his passing and his full obituary is online at beyersfuneralhome.com. Jerry Yates will always be known as a kind, patient, loving, and devoted man with a great big heart.

Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home and Crematory, Leesburg, Florida.