Yates, Darren Ward

Darren Ward Yates, 47, of Radford, passed away on Friday, June 1, 2012. Darren was preceded in death by his father, Cardell Quay Yates; and grandfather Thomas Ward Sheppard. He is survived by his wife, Michelle Theresa Yates; daughters, Larissa Yates Reynolds and husband, Lance Reynolds, and Taryn Ashley Ratcliffe and husband, Kenny Allen Ratcliffe; parents, Wanda Gale Powers and husband, Aubrey Powers; sister, Deanna Wardell Hairston; brother, Dallard Quay Yates; and grandchildren, Zachary Allen Ratcliffe, Kaylee Rae Ratcliffe and Lucy Eileen Reynolds. He was also adored by numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Darren was born on December 11, 1964, in Radford Hospital and graduated from Christiansburg High School in 1983. He worked for the Blacksburg-Christiansburg Water Authority from 1986 until his passing. Prior to his battle with cancer, Darren rarely missed a day of work. As the chief operator, he loved his job and adored the people he worked with. The family will have a private graveside service on Sunday, June 3, 2012, at Sheppard Cemetery with the Rev. Sebert Rorrer officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the American Cancer Society , 2840 Electric Road, Suite 106-A, Roanoke, VA 24018, or to Belview United Methodist Church, 3619 Onyx Drive, Radford, VA 24141. Online condolences may be left by visiting www.hornefuneralservice.com.