Harold Malcolm Yates

May 30, 1957 - June 28, 2024 

Harold Malcolm Yates passed away peacefully on June 28, 2024, at his home in Raleigh, NC. He faced his battle with cancer with his signature good humor, wit, and strength of character. A celebration of his life was held on July 31, 2024, at Brooks Avenue Church of Christ in Raleigh.

Harold was born in Cambridge, Ohio. His parents, Harold Alfred Yates and Leah "Arlene" Hyde Yates, as well as his sister Katherine Yates Lee and stepfather Wyatt "Howard" Cunningham, all preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Michele Davis Yates, his daughters Jessica Thompson, Elizabeth Eustis and Meagan Keziah, his brother Robert Yates, and his grandchildren Grant Barton, Noah and Silas Thompson, and Cora and Eric Eustis. 

His childhood began in Guernsey County, Ohio, followed by a few years in Keysville, Virginia, before the family settled in Fuquay-Varina. Some of us probably remember when Harold, with that signature shock of "long" blonde hair, moved to Fuquay when we were in 6th grade. Back then, of course, folks didn't move to Fuquay very often, and Harold's accent and haircut made blending in a bit more of a challenge. Thankfully, Harold perservered, and went on to create great memories with the Class of 1975. That long blonde hair, however, did not last nearly as long! What did last a lifetime was Harold's kindness, noted by so many at his service. 

Harold was a business owner in the electronics/video industry, later worked in construction (when he met Michele, his wife), and finally worked at NCSU in his semi-retirement years. He enjoyed classic movie collections, vintage toys, and antique farm equipment. He was also heavily involved with his church's food pantry, clothes closet, and special needs carnival efforts. Harold was smart, he was a great guy, and he will be missed.

obituary modified from Brooks Ave Church of Christ obituary; submitted by Beth Ragan Gad