Curtis Ray Yates

Curtis Ray Yates Sr., a retired teacher and resident of Oklahoma City, OK died on February 17, 2021 at the age of 81.
Ray is survived by his wife, Patricia Yates, his sister Thelma Witham of Okemah, his son, Curtis Yates Jr. of Yukon, Oklahoma, and daughter Kimberly Payne & husband John of Midwest City, Oklahoma, and his grandchildren Jeremy, Emilie, David, Amanda, and Katie.
Ray is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Elsie, and three brothers Thomas Jr., Plez, and Richard.
Ray was born in Henryetta on March 22, 1939 to Thomas and Elsie Yates. He was the youngest sibling to sister Thelma and brothers Thomas, Plez, and Richard. He graduated from Henryetta High School in 1958 and joined the army where he served for 3 years. He earned a Bachelor and Master degree in Education from East Central University, and a Reading Specialist Certification from the University of Oklahoma. On June 5, 1965 he married Patricia Lahey, a schoolteacher and his high school sweetheart. In 1967 and 1973 he welcomed a daughter and son into the world. Ray taught for over 20 years and also worked in the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation.
Ray was always a strong man and enjoyed working on his acreage, watching wildlife, playing with his dogs, and working on his cars.
Mass of Resurrection will be held 10 am, Wednesday, February 24th, 2021 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church with Father Peter Phung, officiating. Burial will follow at Westlawn Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Integrity Funeral Service.