Del James Yoakum, Jr.

Del James Yoakum, Jr was born January 25, 1964, to Joan Haynes and Del J. Yoakum, Sr in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Del's inner circle was small but marked by unwavering loyalty to those in it. He loved his wife, stepchildren, grandchildren, and dogs deeply and showed that love in unconventional ways. Known best as 'Pops', Del kept every picture drawn, every card written, and every gift given to him by those he loved, serving as a testament to how much he cherished those relationships.

During his free time, you could often find Del walking his dog, helping his neighbors, listening to classic rock music, taking pictures, picking at his guitar, or watching a Ken Burns documentary. Sharing simple pleasures with others like being outdoors, cooking, and exploring new places brought him much joy.

Del enjoyed engaging in spirited discussions about technology, religion, world news, and politics which often challenged others to think critically about their own worldview.

Del proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves. After his time in the military, he pursued a career in computer technology. Beginning with the mailing industry, he became a self-taught expert within his field, acquiring a deep understanding and proficiency through independent study and hands-on experience. He utilized that experience during his 34 years of service at Bell & Howell where he developed many personal and professional relationships that he revered and often voiced his appreciation for with others.

Del's spirit and bold personality will continue to resonate in the hearts of those closest to him. He will be remembered for the simple pleasures he enjoyed in life and the extraordinary moments that we shared with him.

Del is survived by his wife, Beverly Yoakum, children Melissa Holding [Brent Holding], Dawn Tuck [Jarrod Tuck], Alan 'Rusty' Gatrell [Cara Gatrell], grandchildren Trevor Gatrell, Mackenzie Martus [Joshua Martus], William Holding, Samuel Holding, Skyler Tuck, Ava Grace Holding, and Rhylee Tuck, great grandchildren Joshua Martus Jr and Juliette Martus, and his brother, Kenneth E. Yoakum.

Del is proceeded in death by his mother, Joan, father Del, and great grandbaby Baby Martus.

A celebration of Del's life will be held at Bryan Lee funeral home in Garner, NC located at 1200 Benson Road on Saturday March 29, 2025, at 11:00 am. Family and friends are invited to come enjoy light refreshments and encouraged to share sweet memories of Del's time with us.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (ASFP) in Del Yoakum's name: https://afsp.org/