Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

May 26, 2026

CHARLOTTE – Barbara Hovis Yates, 96, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Southminster Retirement Community.

Born on November 30, 1929, in Charlotte, Barbara was the only child of Caldwell and Nell Hovis.  She spent part of her early years in Charleston before returning to Greensboro, where she met and married the love of her life, Daniel G. Yates, Sr.  In 1954, Barbara and Dan made their home in Charlotte, where she would spend the rest of her life surrounded by family and friends.

Barbara was devoted to her family and especially treasured being a mother and grandmother.  She loved reading, volunteering at Southminster, spending time at Ocean Isle Beach, and dancing — something she enjoyed throughout her life, even in her later years.  Her warmth, grace, and joyful spirit touched everyone who knew her.

Barbara is survived by her children, Laura Y. Smith and husband, Chip; Daniel G. Yates, Jr. and wife, Connie and Robert Yates and wife, Angela.  She also leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren, Zach Yates, Kristy McConnell, Lauren Wenger, Andrew Smith, Landen Yates, Bryce Yates, and Braedon Yates.  She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Daniel G. Yates, Sr., and her grandson, Matthew Smith.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Southminster Retirement Community, as well as Lisa and Susan from VIA Health Partners, for their compassion and support during Barbara’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Barbara’s memory to VIA Health Partners, 7845 Little Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28226 or online at https://www.viagiving.org/one-time-giving whose compassionate care meant so much during her final days.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606.  Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.