Willie Vann Yates

Born August 11, 1935 to Gleason Andrew Yates and Mabel Clark Yates, he is also preceded in death by three brothers – Gleason A. Yates, Jr., Clayborn M. Yates, and Walter G. Yates, as well as beloved grandson, Cody Yates.

Mr. Yates surviving family members are – son, Michael Yates and daughter, Michelle Yates Walker, both of Apex, and grandchildren Samantha and Kurt Walker. He is also survived by two siblings – Melvin Laverne Yates of Goldsboro and Doris Jean Upchurch and husband Billy Upchurch of Morrisville.

Baptized at Green Level Baptist Church at the age of 11, and married to Sue Gilliam in 1957, Mr. Yates was a member of Apex Baptist Church for over 50 years. A successful entrepreneur, an owner of Apex Service Station, Willie Vann served as a member of the Volunteer Apex Fire Department, worked for the Apex Funeral Home, and was a charter member of the Apex Rescue Squad – providing life-saving medical treatment for countless individuals, including the deliveries of several babies to his credit. Willie further served his community as a long-time member of the Apex Jaycees Club.

The family will receive visitors at Apex Funeral Home – 550 W Williams Street – on Sunday, November 15h from 12:00 pm -2:00 pm, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 pm and interment at Apex Cemetery.

In recognition of the real-life angels who cared for Willie Vann in his final days of life, the family encourages donations to Transitions LifeCare – 250 Hospice Circle – Raleigh, NC 27607 in lieu of flowers.