Randall Scott Yates

June 5, 1962 – March 15, 2022

Randy Yates passed away on the night of March 15, 2022 after 34 valiant years surviving HIV/AIDS. Loving partner since 1996 of Keith Knights; brother of John (Melanie) Yates of Melbourne, Gerald (Debbie) Reynard of London, Ontario, Sandra Reynard of Montreal, Gary (Rosa) Yates of Texas, and Sherri Harrison of London, Ontario. Pre-deceased by father John Yates, mother Nancy Brayton Reynard, stepfather Frederic Reynard, and brother-in-law Sean. He will be sadly missed by his uncles Frank and Tom Brayton, nieces and nephews, Ashley, Brittany, Christina, Cody, Fraser, Maxamillion, Paul, Ryan, Sabrina, as well as many other relatives and friends.

Randy worked in the hospitality industry as a young man, making good use of his quick wit, eagerness to be of service, boundless curiosity, and passion for getting to know people in all walks of life. After being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 1988 and unable to work, Randy turned his energy to helping others in support groups, eventually sharing his knowledge and wisdom as a long-term survivor at conferences and other gatherings under auspices of the organization Survive to Thrive.

He channeled his creativity into many different media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, jewelry, and photography. One proud occasion was an exhibition of his artwork at the 501 on Church Street. His instinct to find humour in any situation, coupled with his compassion for all others who were suffering, gained him many close friends who deeply miss the comfort and laughter he shared so naturally.

Donations in his name can be made to any HIV/AIDS service organization of your choice.