Walter Dale Yates, 66, of Loretto, TN, passed away on May 7, 2025, at his home. He was the beloved pastor at First Baptist Church in Santa Fe, TN. Walter was a native of Madison, TN, and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Yates, and his children: Jesse Yates (Ashley), Travis Yates (Stephanie Hubbell), Carrie Snodgrass, Sarah Swaim (Alex), Aleshya Sanders, and LaDonna Lyons (Johnathan). He is also survived by his brothers: Tommy Yates (Sandra), Wayne Yates (Sheila), and Jamie Yates (Kimberly), and his sisters: Debroah Johnson and Beverly Young (Robbie). Walter was also a cherished grandfather to 17 grandchildren and a great-grandson.
Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Walter S. Yates and Dorothy R. Wise, and his stepmother, Sue Yates.
Funeral services will be held at Loretto Memorial Chapel on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 11:00 am, with Andrew Allen and Robbie Hollis officiating. Burial will follow in Yates Family Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 11, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Loretto Memorial Chapel.
Walter will be remembered for his dedication to his faith and his loving presence in the lives of his family and community. He will be deeply missed.