SALISBURY - Samuel Tolley Yates passed away at the John B. Parsons Home, March 9, 2017.
Born Jul. 29, 1927, in Cambridge to the late Edwin R. Yates and Helen Tolley Yates, he was raised by his grandparents, Samuel and Cora Tolley, of Hoopers Island.
He married Nancy Robbins on May 6, 1949. The marriage ended in 1955.
He was a distributor for the Baltimore News American paper for 27 years in Salisbury and Ocean City. Then, he worked for Lehman Adams of Hoopers Island and Benedict's Florist Shop, Salisbury.
He was married to Lorraine Darby Yates for 40 years until her death, March 10, 1997. Mr. Yates enjoyed music, old movies, old cars and his family. He loved and maintained friendships from his youth on Hoopers Island all through his life. He was a wonderful, kind and loving dad to his children.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine; sister, Marlene Crowe; stepdaughter, Terri Hough; adopted son, Charles Yates; and grandson, Phillip Yates.
He is survived by his children, Sheryl (Ray) Aaron, of Cambridge, Edwin R. Yates, of Florida, Debbie (Bruce) Davis, of Delmar; his grandchildren, Ray Aaron, Hillary (Ryan) Shockley, Crystal Yates, Paul Yates, Shelby Lorraine (Kris) Mauser and Samantha Davis. Also, stepson, Steve (Nancy) Mills, of Salisbury; six step-grandchilden; five great-grandchildren; and Karen Sallac, a devoted, loving and caring friend, who brought him much joy and happiness.
A memorial service will be held on Mar. 26, 2017, at 2 p.m. at the John B. Parsons Home in Salisbury.