Thomas B. Yates, 78, took his wings on March 21, 2020. He was born on April 9, 1941 to the late Charlie Clarence and Agnes Sharp Yates in Norfolk, Va. He was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School; Class of 1961. Thomas served in the U.S. Air Force for eight years, after serving in the Air Force, he attended Norfolk State University, majoring in Industrial Education. After Norfolk State; Thomas began a career as a postman for the US Postal Service and retired after thirty years of service.  Thomas didn't completely retire, he attended Trucking School and obtained his CDL, and became and owner/operator of two rigs. Thomas traveled all over the country and finally retired after eight years. Thomas was a faithful member of Bank Street Memorial Baptist Church. Thomas is survived by his loving wife of forty six years; Edna H. Yates; sons Anthony (Hattie) Thomas (Patricia Ann) daughters; Lenise Carr , Deneice Joe ; Takisha Yates-Strayhorn; sisters; Bernice Hill (Nat) Myrtle Yates, three  sisters in law and one brother in law , uncle, Rev. James B. Sharp (Laura)  twelve grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  and predeceased by his brother, Dr. Charlie Yates