W. Oscar Yates

William Oscar Yates, 85, of Wake Forest, passed away Sunday morning, March 30, 2025, at the William M. Dunlap Center for Caring.

Born in Wake County on August 10, 1939, to the late Wray and Josephine Yates, Oscar led a life filled with love, dedication, and service. He was passionate about sports, an avid golfer, and excelled in baseball and basketball. He took great joy in coaching his son's teams and later shared his passions with his grandson, Kevin, whether it was through sports or the Boy Scouts. Along with his love for sports, Oscar had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, enjoying gardening and spending time working with his hands.

Mr. Yates retired from Hanson Aggregates in Wake Forest after 47 years of service, having worked through various ownership changes, beginning his career with Nello Teer. He was a longtime member of Ridgecrest Baptist Church. As a quiet, gentle man, he had a way of bringing calm to any situation.

Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the Historic Oakwood Cemetery, Raleigh.

Mr. Yates is survived by his daughter, Karen Yates of Wake Forest; son, Louis Yates of Warrenton; granddaughter, April Nicole Bakersville of Henderson; brother, Joseph Vernon Yates & wife Susan of Pittsboro; as well as many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ester Allen Redd Yates; son, William Donald Yates; grandson, Donald Kevin Mercer; and brother, Thomas Yates.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dementia Alliance of North Carolina (https://dementianc.org)

Arrangements by Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home, 1051 Durham Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587. (919-556-7400)

www.cswfuneralhome.com