Ernest "Ernie" Yokley

Mr. Ernest Lee “Ernie” Yokley, 87, passed away Thursday July 7, 2022, at his home.  He was born October 22, 1934, in Forsyth County to the late Ernest Keel Yokley and Esma Williams Yokley.  Ernie graduated from Gray High School and then from Lees-McCrae College.  After graduating, he proudly served his country in the United States Army.  Following his tenure in the military, Ernie served 11 years on the NC ABC Board.  He then served 24 years with the Winston-Salem Police Department where he retired as the Assistant Chief of Police.  Following his retirement, Ernie worked many years as a firearms instructor and Basic Law Enforcement Training, better known as BLET with his final years being at Surry Community College.  Outside of his career, he thoroughly enjoyed his opportunity to coach the Tiny Greyhounds youth football team.  In addition to his parents, Ernie is preceded in death by his loving wife, Barbara Brittain Yokley and daughter, Kristin Yokley Kent.  He is survived by his son, Mark Yokley (Debbie); three grandchildren: Adam Kent, Joni Taylor, and Joy Bowling; three great-grandchildren: Lexi, Ryleigh, and Liam; and son-in-law, Roy Kent.  A funeral service will be conducted 2:00 PM Tuesday, July 12th at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel with Jim O’Dillon officiating.  A private family burial will follow at Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM Tuesday prior to service at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to South Little League, 810 W. Clemmonsville Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27127.