Thomas Russell Yates, 16, of Strasburg, Missouri, was born December 23, 2003, in Independence, Missouri, the son of Ernest R. and Kara L. (Hale) Yates. He departed this life, Tuesday, February 25, 2020, alongside his sister as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident.
Tommy was a sophomore at the Lone Jack C-6 School District. He was active in Mule football, wrestling, baseball, and was a percussionist in the band. Tommy never met a stranger and was an all around good friend to all; especially if you were the underdog. He was fun loving and had a hilarious sense of humor. He had just recently started his first job with Stever Towing.
Tommy is survived by his parents, Ernie and Kara Yates of Strasburg; paternal grandparents, Thomas and Linda Yates of Pleasant Hill; maternal grandmother, Sharon Hale of Independence; maternal grandfather, William Hale of Mound City, Missouri; paternal aunts, Stephanie (and George) Monahan, and Jennifer (and Bob) Bresnahan, both of Blue Springs; maternal aunt, Brea (and Joseph) Burks of Independence; paternal cousins, Alex Monahan, Evan Monahan, Ashlyn Bresnahan and Emma Bresnahan, all of Blue Springs; maternal cousin, Chanz Hale of Independence; his two canine buddies, Porter and Memphis; other relatives and a host of many friends.
Visitation was held Tuesday, March 3, 2020, at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, March 4, 2020, at the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church. Burial followed in the Lone Jack Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Strasburg School District and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.stanleydickeyfuneralhome.com
Arrangements: Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong St., Pleasant Hill, Missouri 64080 (816) 540-5550