Yates, Joseph Harry (Age 70) of Waldorf, Maryland.

On January 14, 1940, Joseph Harry Yates, the middle son was born to the marital union of Cecelia and the late James (Buster James) Yates.

He was educated in the Charles County public school system, completing his education at Bel Alton High. At St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Joe made his 1st Holy Communion and Confirmation.

Joe was employed with various employers such as, Earl's Truck Stop and United Masonry.

From an early age Joe was a lover of music. He not only listened, but passionately sang and danced to his favorite Oldies but Goodies tunes. Some of his favorites were, Fever and Going to the River. His audience ranged from performing for himself as well as others. His talent earned him the affectionate title "Jitter Bug Joe". He was a fan of football while rooting for his team, the Redskins. Also, Joe was very concerned about his appearance, and maintained his neatness while he enjoyed and appreciated all colors and patterns of fabric.

Joe never recorded a top ten hit in the music industry which would have given him bragging rights and monetary rewards. However, his name is listed at the top of the chart where he will be forever honored and remembered for his life long respect, honor and love in action while residing with and caring for his Mother. Without bragging, murmuring or complaining, Joe gave what few have time, patience or commitment to give for as long as he could…he endured to the end, a real and true role model of a servant.

After many years of residing with and providing service to his mother, his illness became the wedge that would separate them. Joe's declining health would require brief stays in the Clinton Nursing Home as well as hospitals. On the morning of Thursday, August 26, 2010, Jitter Bug Joe passed away at the Southern Maryland Hospital.

Jitter Bug Joe leaves to remember his life: Cecelia Yates, his loving, devoted mother and lifelong friend, two brothers, James Robert (Bobby) Yates and his three daughters, Pamela, Stephanie and Wanda, Lawrence S. (Lonnie) Yates, his wife Lupae, and their four children , Cynthia Brown, Jerry L. Yates, Angelia Yates and Deniece Yates and a host of other relatives and friends.

Viewing, 10:00am until Mass of Christian Burial, 11:00am on Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at St. Ignatius Catholic Church, 8855 Chapel Point Road, Port Tobacco, Maryland 20677. Interment, Church Cemetery.

Arrangements, THORNTON Funeral Home, P.A., Indian Head, Maryland.