Robert Everett Yates Sr., age 68, of Drasco, Arkansas, passed away Sunday, May 17, 2026 at Baptist Hospital in Heber Springs. He was born March 14, 1958 in Webb, Mississippi to the late Charles Everett Lavern Yates Sr. and Ruby Christine Wilkins Yates. 

Robert was a die hard Razorback fan. He loved to hunt, fish, play dominoes and poker, and enjoyed watching anything with John Wayne and Taylor Swift. He loved the outdoors and spending time with his family all together. Robert had a compassionate heart. He would give anyone anything he had if he knew they needed it. There’s not a person who didn’t like Robert and considered him a friend. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Kenneth E. Yates and Donald W. Yates.

Robert is survived by his son, Robert Earl Yates Jr. of Drasco, Arkansas; three daughters, Kerry Winston (Bryan) of Blytheville, Arkansas, Robin Elizabeth Yates of Tumbling Shoals, Arkansas, and Christine Sims (Dawson) of Searcy, Arkansas; two brothers, James E. Yates and Charles E. Yates Jr.; two sisters, Theresa Yvonne Yates and Diana Mitchell; grandchildren, Jacob Dylan, Thomas Dillon, Izabella (Josh), Bentley, Joe (Stormey), Savannah (Tre), Chase, Levi, Elena, Jake, Travis, Atticus, Asha (Bradley);  two great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and wonderful friends. He will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him. 

The visitation is 1:00 PM, Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Heber Springs Funeral Home followed by the Funeral Service at 2:00 PM. The interment is at Heber Springs Cemetery.