William "Terry" Yates

William “Terry” Yates, age 70, of Westville, Florida, passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025, in Tallahassee, Florida. He was born December 7, 1955, in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, to the late Hubert “Buddy” Yates and Ottice Grant Yates. A lifelong resident of Westville, Terry was a proud graduate of Ponce de Leon High School, Class of 1973. He spent his life doing what he loved - working outdoors, lending a hand to others, and building a legacy rooted in hard work and kindness. For more than 30 years, he owned and operated his own sawmill business, a craft that suited his strong work ethic and love for the land. Terry found joy in the simple things, especially caring for his chickens and guineas. He was a man who never hesitated to help anyone in need and was known to literally give you the shirt off his back. Above all, Terry was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband to his wife, Pat, with whom he shared 49 beautiful years. He was a dedicated father, a proud grandfather, and dearly adored his great-granddaughter. Terry’s presence, generosity, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Hubert "Buddy" and Ottice Yates; one brother, J.B. Yates; and two brothers-in-law, Bobby Legear and Johnnie Griggs.

He is survived by his wife, Pat Yates; two daughters, Erin Jones (Trey), and Carrie Atlow; five grandchildren, Terra (Austin), Trey (Jadyn), Ty, Cierra, and Xander; one great-grandchild, Azalea; five siblings, Glen Yates, Eleanor Legear, Donna Faye Griggs, Carolyn Pugh (Donnie), and Vinita Yon (Joel); sister-in-law, Tessie Yates; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.

A time of visitation will be held Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home, 1474 State Highway 83 North, DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32433. Graveside services will follow at Otter Creek Cemetery beginning at 11:30 a.m., with Minister Joel Davis officiating.

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home.