Jerry Thomas Yates

Jerry Thomas Yates of Huntsville, AL, passed away on his 86th birthday, Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at his residence. He was born in Cedartown, GA May 13, 1940, to the late Ruby Bright Yates and Elmer Wayne Yates.

Jerry graduated from Rockmart High School in 1958 and attended Atlanta Technical College to study electronics and avionics. He served in the United States Army for three years and earned the following decorations: Sharpshooter (Rifle M-14), Basic Missileman (Nike-Hercules), Expert (Carbine) while stationed in Loring Air Force Base, Maine. After the Army, Jerry went to work at Southern Airways as an avionics specialist. He worked through multiple mergers and in different roles throughout his career. He retired from Northwest Airlines in 2003 after 44 years.

As a private pilot, Jerry literally swept his future wife, Alicia off her feet on their first date with a ride in his Cessna over and around Atlanta. They dated for three years and were married March 1971, for a wonderful, loving marriage of 55 years. As a couple, Jerry and Alicia did everything together. They traveled, attended events around Atlanta, were members of the High Museum of Art, and attended social and charitable events around Atlanta. It was evident to all that they enjoyed each other's company and laughing together.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He was a kind, yet strong and loving man, easy going with a good spirit, funny and fun. Jerry was a Christian with a deep belief in God and the Bible. He was very active in his church, serving as deacon over the years. He was a long-time member of Fayetteville United Methodist Church and the Fellowship-Discipleship Sunday School class in Fayetteville, GA.

Jerry loved sports and was good at teaching and coaching his son and grandchildren. He was always happily available to play catch, throw the football in the back yard, shoot hoops, build models, target shoot, ride bikes. He was ever present for ball games, scouting events, music, sports and school events.
Jerry's talent at home repair, working on the car, and investing was deep. He offered wisdom to his family when asked, sometimes allowing them to learn the hard way, but never saying "I told you so".

A kind soul, Jerry loved taking care of and playing with his cats. He grew up with dogs but as an adult always had at least one cat at his side. He loved fishing but not hunting. His moral compass was true, instilling strong values in his son and grandchildren.

Jerry loved both kinds of music-country and western! He listened to Johnny, Willie, Dolly, Loretta, and Hank, and enjoyed drinking a beer or two with his dear friend, Jack Simpson. He and Alicia attended the symphony, plays, and musicals over the years. He even endured a Liberace concert without complaint.
He enjoyed the lake and the mountains, creating and sharing memories of taking out the boat, water skiing, caving, grilling out, and sitting around the pool. But Jerry loved the beach the most. He and Alicia own a beach home in Destin, Florida and frequently block time from renters so that family and friends can enjoy.
Jerry is the eldest of four children and has a large extended family. He is a fine example to everyone he met of love, empathy, and forgiveness and made a point to maintain relationships with family and friends.

Mr. Yates is survived by his wife: Alicia Johnson Yates; son: Michael Thomas Yates and wife Amy Duck Yates; grandchildren: Helena Eiko Yates, Adison Elyse Yates, and Aeron Thomas Yates; Siblings: Sandra Yates, Gayle Yates Gray, and Jimmy Wayne Yates; and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel of Hampton Cove Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Hampton Cove Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be Saturday from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the ASPCA or to a charity of your choice.

Alvis Miller & Son Funeral Home & Crematory makes this announcement on behalf of the family of Mr. Jerry Thomas Yates.