Zachary Yates

Zachary Tyler Yates, age 30, of Tuscaloosa, Alabama passed away peacefully at UAB hospital on January 23, 2025. His memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday February 1, 2025, at Magnolia Chapel Funeral Home of Northport. Visitation will begin at 12:30 PM, prior to the event. 

Zachary was preceded in death by Grandparents Anna F. Brown, and Peggy and Tyler Yates, as well as special grandfather Ronnie Vanover. Survivors include: his parents, Debra and Jeff Ball, and Joey and Jill Yates; sisters Katie Yates and Isabel Steele; brother John McCall; grandparents Narvel Brown, Clark and Jeane Hutton, Wayne Ball and Eddie and Marianne Skeens; special grandmother Diane (Nana) Vanover; loving companion Charlie; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

 Zach was born in Abingdon, Virginia, on October 19, 1994. He grew up in Richlands, Virginia, where he developed many strong friendships, as well as a love for golf and baseball. He began his academic studies at Southwest Virginia Community College, where he discovered an interest in Geology. As a result, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree at Radford University, and was recognized as the Dean Scholar of his class. 

From there, Zach entered into the Masters program at the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!), and earned a Masters Degree in Geology. Zach continued to pursue his academic interests as a doctorate student. 

Zach was a uniquely bright, humble, and gifted young man. He was a very meticulous student, and cherished his strong friendships with colleagues, family, and friends. In the darkest times, he remained faithful, and always had a smile on his face. Zach’s dedication, curiosity, and unrelenting optimism was an inspiration to many. 

Debra and his family would like to recognize the tireless dedication of Dr. Nabors and the entire UAB medical team for their compassion, care, and comfort. Words cannot express the gratitude they have for the devotion Dr. Nabors has shown over these past few years, and they will forever hold a special place in their hearts for him. 

In lieu of flowers or any other sort of recognition or remembrance, please make contributions to the brain cancer research program of Dr. Nabors and his staff. 

Contributions can be made to: Neuro-Oncology Research Fund UAB Neuro-Oncology Program 510 20th Street South LHFOT (Lyons Harrison Faculty Office Tower) Room 1020 Birmingham, Alabama 35294.