Raymond “Howard” Yates, born Aug. 22, 1942, and Patricia Kirkner Yates, born Dec. 17, 1944, of Pilot, went to be with their Lord on Dec. 27, 2021
Howard and Pat were high school sweethearts and best friends. They were happily married for over 59 years.
Howard was a U.S. Air Force veteran serving in Las Vegas until returning to Pilot in 1968. He worked for Burlington/New River Industries for 42 years. After retirement, Howard worked for MCPS as a beloved school bus driver.
Pat worked many years for American Electric Power as a customer service representative. Upon retirement, she became an elderly caregiver for a short time. She was an active member in helping restore the Pilot Community Center.
Howard and Pat were both members of Oak Grove Church. Howard served as deacon and song leader. Pat also was in the choir along with Howard. They both loved to sing for the Lord.
They both were the kindest and sweetest people you could ever meet. Their love and support for each other and their family were tremendous. They are now walking down the streets of gold hand in hand and watching over their family.
Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice and Louise Yates; and a brother and
sister-in-law, Roger and Darlene Yates.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Hanford and Willadean Kirkner; and a brother-in-law,
Raymond McNeil.
Left to cherish their memories are their daughter, Elise Epperly and her husband, Jeff; and a son,
Randy Yates and his wife, Tara. They were blessed with five grandchildren: Matt Epperly (Nadia),
Brady Epperly (Haley), Zach Epperly (Karlie), Hannah Yates, and Breanna Yates; four
great-grandchildren: Halen, Layton, Lincoln, and Brantley; Howard’s sister, Clara Dove; Pat’s
sister, Gloria McNeil (Bert Gill); Pat’s brother, David Kirkner (Doris); and many nieces, cousins
and friends.
At this time there will be no visitation, but a memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.
