Richard “Rick” Craig Yokeley, 80, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on March 1, 2025, at the Gordon Hospice House.

He was born on February 14, 1945, in Winston-Salem, N.C., to Joe and Cress Yokeley. Rick graduated from Ledford High School in 1963 before earning his Bachelor of Science degree from High Point University and his Master of Arts degree from California State University.

He honorably served in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1965 aboard the USS Oriskany aircraft carrier, where he worked as a supply clerk. This role sparked a lifelong career in materials and supply chain management. He went on to hold management positions at Ingersoll Rand and Krispy Kreme, became a franchise owner of Mail Boxes Etc., and later shared his knowledge as a professor of Supply Chain Management at Forsyth Tech Community College.

Rick was a member of Prospect Presbyterian Church and a former member of Clemmons Presbyterian Church. His faith was an important part of his life.

Above all, his world was centered around his daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Poppop was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, always finding joy in their accomplishments and milestones.

Rick is survived by his loving wife, Vickie Yokeley; daughters, Jana Coulter (Joe) and Cindy Rothrock (Robbie); and his stepsons, Russell Thompson (Kellie) and Kevin Thompson (Debbie). He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren, Brandon Rothrock, Callie Rothrock, Hunter Smith, Lindsey Smith, Jordan Smith, Shelby Neill, Jessica Baker, Hayley Thompson, Riley Thompson, and Lainey Thompson. He was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Camsen, Malachi, Haynes, and Hudson, with one more, Rowan, on the way. He is also survived by his loving sister, Joyce Yokeley Blair of Houston, Texas, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Cress Yokeley; and his two brothers, Frank and Gary Yokeley.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 8, 2025, at 2 p.m. at New Mount Vernon United Methodist Church in Winston-Salem, N.C.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Iredell County, Shady Grove Methodist Church in Winston-Salem, or Prospect Presbyterian Church in Mooresville, NC in Rick’s memory.

Rick will be remembered for his sense of humor and unwavering devotion to his family. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Yokeley family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.

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