Melvin S. Yates, 78, of Batesville, AR, was a quiet man with a kind and caring heart. He was known by many as “Smiley”, a name that fit him well, as his smile often said more than words ever could. Melvin was born on November 8, 1947, to Denzil and Juanita Yates at Dr. Allen’s Hospital in Batesville and departed this life on February 9, 2026, from his home. He fought a long and difficult illness with Dementia and Parkinson’s due to exposure to Agent Orange during his service to his country in the Vietnam War.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Wanda Yates. He is survived by his wife, Gaye, of 54 years; his sons, Stephen (Tanya) of Conway and Doug (Teresa) of Batesville; his grandsons, Jackson Yates of Carrolton, TX and Brayden Yates of Conway; his granddaughters Kelli Stewart (Josh) and Kassidy Brightwell (Dalton), both of Batesville; and his 4 great grandchildren, Kaisley Nick and Weston, with Riverlynn and Lennon Brightwell due to arrive this summer!
Melvin was a 1965 graduate of Newark High School and then completed Surveying and Drafting School at Petit Jean Vocational School in 1971. Following graduation from vocational school, he began working for ARDOT where he held various positions throughout his career. He retired as a Bridge Inspector.
Melvin was never happier than when surrounded by his family. His boys were his pride and joy and his grandchildren filled him with wonder and laughter. Time spent with them all was priceless. Due to his illness, he was unable to spend quality time with his great-grandchildren. His great-granddaughter, Kaisley Nick, lived locally, and they developed a special bond as she visited him often. These visits brightened his days.
Though his family meant everything to him, Melvin’s greatest love was his Lord and Savior. Once he committed his life to God, his faith was evident in the way he lived – with humility, steadiness, and quiet conviction, beginning each day with bible study and prayer.
Services are entrusted to Willis Funeral Service of Batesville, AR and will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the Willis Funeral Service Chapel. Visitation will be from 930 AM until 11 AM with the funeral service, officiated by Bro. Bill Allen, beginning at 11 AM. Honored to serve as pallbearers will be Jackson Yates, Brayden Yates, Dalton Brightwell, Josh Stewart, Michael Allen, Brad Magar, Colton Gregory, Aaron Hobbs, and Steve Jones. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Ronald McDonald House at UAMS or the UAMS NICU (https://ronaldmcdonaldhousearnla.org/)
