Robert Wilson "Robby" Yates, age 73, passed away Friday, January 9, 2026, at his home in Louisville, Mississippi. Visitation will be Monday, January 12 at Massey Funeral Home in Louisville from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Graveside services and interment will be 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 13 in Hartness Cemetery in Noxapater, Mississippi, with Reverend Franklin Smith officiating.
Robby was born April 19, 1952, to Ethel and Christine Smith Yates in Winston County, Mississippi. He worked at Noxapater Glove Factory. Robby enjoyed the outdoors, especially gardening and fishing. He also enjoyed classic cars, knives, and guns.
Robby is survived by his mother, Christine Yates of Louisville; his sister, Dianne Mills of Louisville; and two brothers, Barney Yates also of Louisville; and Ted Yates (Carla) of Noxapater; as well as his nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Ethel Wilson Yates.
Serving as pallbearers are Rex Allen Smith, Bobby Joe Smith, Jordan Eaves, Darrell Beasley, Kevin Weeks, and James Edwards. Memorial contributions in honor of Robby may be given to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.
Services are under the direction of Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.masseyfuneralhome.net.