Michael James Yates

Graveside service for Michael James Yates will be 11 a.m., Wed., July 3, at Washington Cemetery with Rev. Richard Hubbard officiating. Burial will follow under the direction of Musgrove-Merriott-Smith Funeral Service & Crematory. Visitation will be held at the funeral home Wed. 8-10 a.m.

Michael passed away Sun., June 30, 2013, at St. Francis South, Tulsa, at the age 53.

The son of Harold and Peggy Yates was born Feb. 25, 1960, in Virginia. Michael grew up in Virginia, Detroit, MI, and Waller, TX. He enjoyed preaching from a young age, and pursued this passion throughout his life. He ministered in Waller, TX, for several years. Michael was a lover of bluegrass music and enjoyed playing with his brothers. He worked for several years as a machinist at Valco in Houston, TX. In 2001, he moved to Claremore where he met Andrea Carol (Quigley) Moree. Michael enjoyed reading, gun collecting, wrestling, casinos, fishing, and anything to do with the civil war. He also enjoyed watching cooking shows and cooking. Most of all he loved spending time with his children.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Harold Yates; and brother, Harold E. Yates, Jr.

He is survived by his fiancee and best friend, Andrea Moree of the home; mother, Peggy Yates of Waller, TX; daughter, Amber Yates of the home; step-sons: Scotty Moree and wife, Ashley of Catoosa, and Tommy Moree of the home; siblings: Gary Yates and wife, Connie of Waller, TX, Wayne Yates and wife, Laura of Waller, TX, Joe Yates and wife, Cyndi of Huntsville, TX, Roger Yates and wife, Margie of Houston, TX, Ray Yates and wife, Carolyn of Waller, TX, and Joyce and husband, Billy of Katy, TX; and 17 nieces and nephews.