William Yates

William “Bill” Joseph Yates, 76, of Angleton, Texas, passed away on October 22, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born on March 1, 1948, Bill spent his life in the Angleton area, where he became a beloved member of the community.

 Bill was a proud veteran of the United States Coast Guard, dedicating his service to his country. 

 A true jack of all trades, Bill’s career was as diverse as his interests. From building houses to working as a chiropractor, and later retiring as a safety technician in the plants, he was always willing to learn and adapt. He graduated from Sam Houston State University with his Bachelor’s Degree and then pursued and received his Doctor of Chiropractic Degree. 

 In his free time, Bill enjoyed the great outdoors, spending many days hunting and fishing. Later in life, he developed a deep passion for genealogy and Texas history, dedicating countless hours to researching and learning about his roots and the heritage of the state he loved. 

 Another one of Bill’s passions was helping with community organizations and was very active in all of those. He was an appointed member of the Brazoria County Historical Commission. He was also a member of several other organizations, including Velasco Lodge No. 757, the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution - Cradle of Texas Chapter #33, and The Sons of the Republic of Texas - Stephen F. Austin Chapter Six. Bill was also an active member of the Sons of the Confederate Veterans.

 Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy and spirit will live on through the many lives he touched.

 Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Lula Belle Holmes and William Donald Yates, his sisters, Lucille Sides and Dorothy Crowell and his brother, Donald Ray Yates. 

 He is survived by his sons, John Yates (Laura), William Andy Yates (Jinhee), Sean Powell (Sydney), who will remember him for his strength, dedication, and unwavering love for his family. His five grandchildren, Kitty Parker Yates, Robert Maclain Yates, Campbell Wallace Yates, Riley Wayne Powell and Shane Steven Powell. Nephews David Yates (Aida), Dennis Yates, Donald Sides, Billy Crowell, Richard Crowell and niece, Nicki Sides. He is also survived by his longtime partner, Leslie Craigen, and many other relatives and close friends. 

 Pallbearers are David Yates, Richard Crowell, Billy Don Crowell, Mike Peltier, Riley Wayne Powell, and

Shane Steven Powell. Honorary Pallbearers are Dennis Yates, Richard Pinckard, Louis Peltier, Donald Sides, and Donald Reichert.

 A Celebration of Life will be held at Palms Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive friends and family at 10:00 a.m. until the service time. A graveside ceremony will be held at Phair Cemetery on County Road 231, Freeport, Texas 77541 immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to the Fort Velasco Project in Surfside, Texas https://www.fortvelasco.org/donate.

 Following the Interment, a memorial and meal will be served at the Masonic Lodge, 1210 N. Avenue O, Freeport, Texas 77541.