Michael William Yates Jr

In Loving Memory Michael William Yates Jr.

Michael William Yates Jr., 39, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away on September 2, 2026. Born on July 22, 1987, in Indianapolis, Michael spent his life in the city he always called home. He was the son of Darlene Day and the late Michael William Yates Sr., and was lovingly raised by his mother and Lloyd Meek, who played a significant role in his upbringing and cared for him as his own.

Michael was someone who genuinely cared about others. He had a giving heart and was known for putting the people he loved before himself. His kindness, sense of humor, and caring nature are among the many things his family and friends will remember most.

Michael proudly served his country in the United States Army from 2013 to 2016 as a Field Artillery Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist, attaining the rank of Specialist. He completed his service with an Honorable discharge and earned numerous awards and distinctions, including the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Air Assault Badge. His family will forever be proud of his service.

After completing high school, Michael became a certified forklift driver. Outside of work, he enjoyed staying active and took pride in his physical fitness, especially running. He loved his car, Superman, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. He also had a strong interest in stand-up comedy and hoped to pursue it one day.

Music was another important part of Michael’s life, and Blink‑182 was a favorite. His favorite song was “All the Small Things”—a title that feels especially fitting for someone whose love for others was so often shown through the small things he did for the people around him.

Michael is survived by his mother, Darlene Day; Lloyd Meek, who helped raise him; his grandmother, Peggy Day; and his siblings Zachary Meek, Michael Meek, Sean Meek, Daniel Day, Charlie Aldrich, Adell Mabry, Cierra Gilliam, Heather Shaw, and Brittany Rearick. He also leaves behind extended family members and friends who loved him and will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, Michael William Yates Sr.

Michael’s life was far too short, but a life is measured by more than the number of years lived. It is found in the people we cared for, the laughter we shared, the memories we created, and the countless little ways we let the people around us know they mattered.

Services honoring his life and military service will be held at 1:00 PM at Fountain Square Cremation and Funeral Services on Tuesday, September 15, 2026.  Family and friends are welcome to gather from 11:00 AM until the hour of the service.

For Michael, there were so many of those small things.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten