William Clayton "Yank" Yarborough, Jr.

Burlington - William Clayton “Yank” Yarborough, Jr., 67, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family. Yank was born in Kittery, Maine on March 9, 1957 to the late William Clayton Yarborough, Sr. and Rebecca Ruth Shockley Yarborough and was the husband of 31 years to the love of his life, Susan Neal Yarborough of the home.

 Yank was a man of many talents and a wealth of knowledge, with a life rich in experiences that shaped him into the person he became. He began his journey at a young age as a member of the Burlington Boys Choir, where he learned valuable life lessons that would guide him forward. A graduate of Williams High School, class of 1975, Yank excelled in both football and baseball, earning numerous awards along the way. He also played semi-pro baseball and enjoyed softball throughout his life.

 Yank attended East Carolina University before ultimately graduating from Alamance Community College with a degree in Biomedical Engineering. His passion for electronics and a deep curiosity about how things work led him to a successful career in the field. He began his professional journey at Roche Biomedical, then moved to TriPath Imaging, and later joined Becton Dickinson (BD), where he spent 26 years as a Service Manager and Biomedical Technical Manager. Throughout his time at BD, Yank made significant contributions to improving Women's Health and Cancer care.

 Beyond his career, Yank was deeply dedicated to his family, friends and his church families. He enjoyed singing in various church choirs and quartets. As a father, he instilled his knowledge and skills in his children, teaching them to fix things on their own while always being a loving, dependable father and husband. He also coached many sports teams, guiding his kids and many others, both on and off the field. Known for his loyalty, patience, and kindness, he was always ready to lend a helping hand or offer support. Whether solving a problem or navigating life's challenges, Yank’s resourcefulness and determination meant that he would always find a solution—even when the answers weren't immediately clear. A steadfast pillar of strength and truth, he provided a constant source of guidance, all while embodying the gentle spirit of a true “gentle giant.”

 As his children grew and moved forward in life, Yank rekindled his love for outdoor activities. He enjoyed rabbit hunting, turkey hunting, deer hunting, fishing, and playing golf. He also found joy in working on his tractor, mowing the land for his family and neighbors, and occasionally playing his guitars. Yank cherished the quiet moments with his wife, tending to their garden and enjoying family vacations together. Throughout his life, Yank’s blend of work, family, and hobbies reflected a person who was always learning, sharing, and enjoying life to its fullest.

 Yank was also a man of deep faith and love for the Lord. His unwavering belief was a cornerstone of his life. As was often the case, you could always find him with a cigar in hand, enjoying the simple pleasures of life while surrounded by those he cared about.

 He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Susan; sons, Brandon Cobb and wife Amy of Indiana, Clay Yarborough and partner Madison Furr of Raleigh; grandson, Asa William Cobb; sisters, Cynthia Yarborough of Mebane and Sandra Yarborough of Burlington. His faithful hunting dog, Susie. Many other sisters in-love, brothers in-love, numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and cousins.

 A service to celebrate Yank’s life will be held at 11:00am Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends following the Celebration of Life at the funeral home and other times at his residence.

 In lieu of flowers please make a donation to The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University School of Medicine or the Animal Services of the City of Burlington (BAS).

 To watch the service and to sign the online condolences, please visit www.lowefuneralhome.com.