Obituary of Thomas Milton Yates

Thomas Milton Yates, 86, of Lynchburg, passed away at his home on Sunday, December 27, 2020. He was born on July 20, 1934 in Lynchburg, Va. and he was the only child of the late Clair Dixon Yates and Ruby M. Yates Hall.

Thomas graduated from E.C. Glass High School in 1953 and Phillips Business College in 1955.

He spent two years active duty in Tokyo, Japan and upon returning to the United States, served two additional years in the National Guard.

On August 8, 1958, he married Jean E. Nicely from Lexington, Va. They spent their years together serving their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as life-long members of College Hill Baptist Church (now Gospel Community Church-College Hill). He was a very loving and giving person, and he had a great sense of humor. He loved making others laugh. He will be remembered for always helping others.

He enjoyed hunting with his grandfather, Martin, and his uncles. He loved playing sports in his younger years with his favorite being golf. He and Jean loved watching all sports together.

Thomas was employed from 1962 until retirement in 1995 at Babcock & Wilcox Company.

The family would like to thank our church family for their love and prayer through our trying times, as well as some very special friends, Arvid, Tillie, Ernest and Dale for their care and support.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Jean, and several cousins.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2020, at Fort Hill Memorial Park with the Rev. Dr. Monty Fox officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Gospel Community Church-College Hill, Meals on Wheels or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Diuguid Funeral Service & Crematory, Waterlick Chapel, 237-2722, is serving the family.  On-line condolences may be sent to www.diuguidfuneralservice.som.