Larry Lee Yates 1961-2022

We celebrate the life of Larry Lee Yates after his passing on Aug. 16, 2022 in Mineola. He suffered a major stroke and could not be revived. He lived for 61 years. 

Born in Dallas, Larry was adopted at birth to Laverne and Leroy Yates. He graduated New Caney High School and continued to study the rest of his life; it was his favorite pastime. He was a nurse for many years and went on to earn doctorates in ministry, theology and religion. Larry also authored many books. At the end of his life, he was a key founding member of a local youth chess club, a volunteer at Grace Community Healthcare, president of Mineola Bible Institute and Seminary and a minister/teacher through Miracles in Action Ministry. He was a member of the advisory board of the International Apostolic University-London as well as the International Apostolic Council. Larry attended Bethesda Church Lindale. 

A loving father and husband of 32 years, Larry was a true supporter and guide for all he met in his path. Though he was not a perfect man, he dedicated his life to ministry, stewardship and authentic outreach, especially to the youth and to the incarcerated. He witnessed firsthand the lack of grace and care within the prison system and spent years working with individuals through correspondence in faith. He recognized that while we all have fallen short, we all have something left to rise for. Larry knew what pain was, but he was not afraid, and he used his experiences to help a multitude of people grow and build secure foundations. His testimony of failures and witness of recovery brought hope and joy to others. Through his word and his work, he shared the values of loving your neighbor, believing in one another and discovering joy every day. A man of duality, he was authentic. In the face of struggle and grief he was present, passionate, relentless yet filled with grace for others. “He was candid about the good, the bad, and the ugly that makes us all children of God.” 

Larry’s impact multiplied after his death, and he has become a seed in the hearts of many. 

Larry Yates was preceded in death by his parents, Laverne and Leroy Yates, and survived by his wife, Shelia; his son, Aaron; daughters, Amber and Kimmie; brother, Lynn; grandson, Kieran; and more extended family members. 

His memorial service was held on Aug. 27, 2022 at Bethesda Church Lindale. If you would like to send condolences or support to his widow and family, please email odd.tchotchke@gmail.com.