Ellen Gray Yates

Ellen Gray Yates, 92 of Roanoke Rapids passed away Saturday, February 21, 2026 at the home of her daughter in Roanoke Rapids.

Ellen was born August 3, 1933 in Suffolk, Virginia, the oldest daughter of William Thomas Gray and Bertha Harrell Gray. In addition to her parents, she was proceeded in death by her husband, Marion Johnson Yates, Sr., son, Bubba Yates, brother Emmette Gray, sisters, Marion Davis, and Jean Brooks, brother’s in law, James T. Yates, Earl Yates, Nick Yates, Jimmy Yates (Helen) and Bobby Yates.

Ellen loved her family, caring for others, the beach, traveling and bingo with her friends in South Hill, Virginia

Ellen worked for J.P. Steven’s & Company Inc. until her retirement. After taking some time for herself, she took the nurses aide course at Halifax Community College and was a caregiver to residents in Halifax County, Roanoke Rapids and Kill Devil Hills.

Ellen is survived by son Billy Yates (Judy), daughters, Brenda Clabough (Lynn) and Kay Matthews (Dennis), brother William E. Gray, sisters Betty G. Bishop and Evelyn G. Oliver, grandson Jason Yates, granddaughters, Courtney Wells, Lisa Clabough, and Brandy Alaniz, 8 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandson. Also left to cherish her memory are sister’s-in-law, Peggy Kutsmeda, Macy Marnon and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Laura, Shannon, April and Lavelle of Liberty Hospice, who took care of our mom with dignity and loving compassion. To the Liberty Hospice volunteers, we thank you for your calls and the special things you did.

To her friend and part-time caregiver Marie Gross-Crossen we thank you for your prayers your love and help throughout the years.

The burial service will be held on Saturday May 16, 2026 at 1:00pm in the Round Hill Church Cemetery ( 2703 Brink Road, Emporia Virginia).

Hockaday Funeral & Cremation Services handling arrangements for the Yates family. Family and friends may sign the online register by visiting www.hockadayfs.com.