Nicholas Yates Obituary

Nicholas "Nick" Rex Yates, 55, beloved husband of Mary Elizabeth Julian Yates, went to Heaven to be with his Lord on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Born in Dayton, OH, he was the son of Ellen Bowsher Yates and the late Frederick Seddon Yates. Nick met his beloved wife, Mary, in a charming twist of fate that began with a chance encounter at a restaurant, forever changing both of their lives. Mary's pug Beni, who died too soon, brought them together by getting Mary out to a restaurant with her brother and Nick got her number that night. They immediately bonded over the sudden loss of Beni and their love for dogs. They married in Greenville SC in May of 2005, creating a partnership that flourished for over 20 wonderful years from Dayton OH to St Paul MN to West Chester, OH to Greenville, SC. Their lives were filled with shared dreams, laughter, many friends, a lot of great family vacations, football seasons in the man cave and undeniable friendship, support and love for one another. Nick was a proud father and found immense joy in his role as the devoted dad to their daughter, Sarah Julian Yates, who was his best friend and dance party partner at home. He took immense pride in guiding Sarah into the remarkable young lady she has become, often referring to himself as the "CEO of the house." His love for family and friends (including the pugs) was evident in everything he did. A strong Christian, Nick's faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he worked each day to strengthen his bond with Jesus. He actively participated in the Men's Bible Study at Covenant Church in Greer, embodying a servant spirit that inspired those around him. Always ready to lend a helping hand, he dedicated his time and resources to serve family, friends, strangers, and animals alike. He loved his country, and his patriotism was palpable; although he did not serve in the military, he wore his love for his country with pride. Sarah's choice to attend the Citadel in the fall was greatly inspired by this. A sports enthusiast, Nick was an avid fan of the Cincinnati Reds, Ohio State football and the 49ers and found joy sharing his extensive knowledge of football and baseball with friends often while enjoying a good cigar and scotch in his beloved "man cave". He was dedicated to volunteering his time and resources to Harlee's Angels Rescue, Inc., which rescues, fosters, and rehabilitates needy animals. In addition to his mother, Ellen, and loving wife, Mary, his legacy of love and kindness will forever be cherished in the hearts of his precious daughter, Sarah; sister, Tara Yates Green (Todd); In-laws, Joe and June Julian; Nick's brother-in-law Michael Julian (Lorrie); nieces, nephews, many cousins, and his beloved pugs, Frankie, Georgie, and Pinky. He was greeted in Heaven by his dad, so many animals he had a hand in saving and many wonderful family members. A gathering of family and friends will be held Friday, July 18, 2025, from 12:30 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown, followed by a service to celebrate the joy he brought to our lives at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel. A burial will be held at Graceland East Memorial Park. Per Nick's wishes- no suits allowed! In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his honor to his favorite organizations, Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the Southern Pug Boston Terrier and Bulldog rescue a division of Harlees angels. Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Nick with the family by clicking on the button labeled "Share A Memory". Nick, you are so loved and missed!