Born in White Plains, New York, on August 5, 1946. Beloved son of the late Robert C. Yates and Elenore Brombach Yates.
Rowdy lived a life full of adventure and service. A distinguished career serving his country in the United States Air Force. An MBA educator at Middle Georgia State University, teaching both business and ethics classes.
He found joy in many hobbies. Raised countless champion show dogs throughout the years. He was an esteemed dog show judge, who traveled the world judging for organizations such as AKC & UKC. With a passion for adventure, Rowdy and wife Sharon could be found at the golf course, or on the Goldwing traveling to new places.
Rowdy's zest for life extended beyond his hobbies; he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, and a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. He knew no strangers, and his boisterous personality and genuine kindness left an everlasting impression on everyone he met.
Above all, Rowdy's love for his family was unconditional, he took immense pride in their accomplishments, boasting of their successes at every opportunity.
In addition to his parents, Rowdy was preceded in death by his brother, Robert “Beau” Yates, Jr.
His memory will forever be treasured by his loving wife of 55 years, Sharon Fabian Yates of Macon; Children: Helena Engelauf (Robert) of Eatonton; Richard Yates, Jr. (Teresa) of Peachtree City, and DeAnna Yates of Atlantic Beach, Florida; Grandchildren: Robert John Engelauf (Sabrina) of Macon, Richard “Evan” Engelauf (Abigail Wiggins) of Macon, Nolan F. Yates-Lewis (Kayla Graham) of Woodbine, Eleanor “Dottie” Hunt of Athens, Alabama, Hannah Yates of Peachtree City; and great-grandchildren, Colin Lewis, Luna Speidel and Arianna Engelauf.
Visitation will be Tuesday, May 14, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at McCullough Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Macon, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Captain Richard “Rowdy” Alan Yates, USAF (Ret.) will be laid to rest at Georgia Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery at a later date.
The family will accept flowers or donations may be given in memory of Captain Richard “Rowdy” Alan Yates, USAF (Ret.) to the Knights of Columbus, Macon Chapter, P.O. Box 5669, Macon, Georgia 31208.
Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.
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