Terry Scott Yates

Terry Scott Yates, 56, of Greenup County, Kentucky, born November 1, 1969, passed away on October 11, 2026. He was a man who lived his life with a heart full of love and a personality larger than life. He was full of character, laughter, joy, jokes, and, above all else, love. Terry never knew a stranger, made friends wherever he went, and had a special way of making everyone around him feel welcome and appreciated.

Terry was welcomed into Heaven by his loving father, Dewayne Yates, and his mother, Cheri Vernon.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Martha Yates; his son, Dewayne Yates-Purkeypyle, and son-in-law, Daniel Purkeypyle; his daughter, Abbrielle Yates, and daughter-in-law, Amber Belcher-Yates; and his cherished grandson, Asher Yates.

He is also survived by his father-in-law, Clifford Perkins; his mother-in-law, Teresa Perkins; and his mother-in-law, Patricia Spears.

Terry also leaves behind his beloved little dog, Buddy, his loyal companion and sidekick who went just about everywhere with him. Wherever Terry was going, there was a good chance Buddy was right by his side.

Terry is also survived by his brother, Steve Akers, and his beloved aunt Joyce and uncle Bill, along with their family, who held an especially meaningful place in his life and in the hearts of his children and loved ones. Through the years, Joyce, Bill, and their family provided unconditional love, support, and a place Terry could always call home. No matter the circumstances, he knew their door was always open and that he would always have family to lean on. Terry also shared a special bond with the many other members of the Yates-Kirk family, whose love, kindness, and continued support meant so much to him and his family. These family connections were a true blessing and will forever be cherished.

Terry also leaves behind three of his closest friends, men who were more like brothers than friends: David Lewis, Shane Bayes, and Jeff Smith. Through the years, these friendships were filled with countless memories, laughter, loyalty, and the kind of brotherhood that lasts a lifetime.

A proud member of Carpenters Local 472, Terry spent his working years building more than just things with his hands. He built friendships, connections, and memories with people from all walks of life. He was the kind of man who could strike up a conversation with just about anyone and leave them with a smile or a story to tell.

Above all, Terry loved his family deeply. He was incredibly proud of his children and the people they had become, and he never missed an opportunity to share that pride. His wife, children, grandson, and extended family meant the world to him. Nothing brought him greater happiness than seeing the people he loved happy and doing well.

Terry will be remembered for his unforgettable personality, his sense of humor, his endless jokes, and the laughter he brought into every room. He had a special way of making people feel welcome, loved, and as if they belonged. His stories will continue to be told, his jokes will continue to bring smiles, and his love will continue to live on through everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Of all the things Terry enjoyed in life, fishing held a special place in his heart. Fishing wasn’t simply a hobby; it was a way of life. He also had a deep love for hunting, something he enjoyed almost as much as fishing. Whether he was casting a line, spending time in the woods, sharing stories of his outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet of nature, those moments brought him some of his greatest joy.

Though Terry has made his final cast here on Earth, the love he shared and the memories he created will continue to ripple through the lives of those he leaves behind. His greatest catch was never a fish, but the family, friendships, and love he gathered throughout his lifetime.

And if Terry could leave everyone with one final message, it would probably be something simple:

“Grab a fishing pole, cast that line, and enjoy every moment you’ve been given.”

Until we meet again, Dad. Tight lines and calm waters. We love you.

A funeral service will be held at 1 P.M. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Bailey Family Funeral Home in Flatwoods, KY, with Rev. Lloyd L. Bailey and Dewayne Yates-Purkeypyle officiating. Burial will follow at Short White Oak Cemetery in Flatwoods, KY.

Visitation will be from 11 A.M. until the service on Saturday at the funeral home.

Condolences can be expressed at www.baileyfamilyfuneralhome.com. 

Flowers and other gifts can be purchased here on our website or at any of our local flower shops.