Crystal Jan Yates

Crystal Yates (72), passed away in her home on April 29, 2026, in Abilene, Texas.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Hamil Family Funeral Home.

Crystal was born in Uvalde, Texas to Eugene and Isabel Haubner on September 4, 1953. The family moved to Sante Fe, New Mexico, where Crystal attended school and graduated from Saint Michael's High School. After graduation, Crystal enlisted in the Air Force. While serving in Spain, Crystal met the love of her life, Jeffrey Yates, who was also serving in the Air Force. Crystal and Jeffrey married on May 23, 1982, and were happily married for forty-four years. Crystal and Jeffrey resided in Montana for several years, where they enjoyed golfing and made many life-long friends. After retiring from the Air Force, Crystal and Jeffrey moved to Texas where Crystal pursued a career in real estate. Crystal and Jeffrey moved to Abilene, Texas in 1996, where Crystal continued her career in real estate and she and Jeffrey continued to golf and form friendships at Fairway Oaks/ Abilene Country Club. Crystal enjoyed entertaining which afforded her the opportunity to practice her stellar culinary skills. Crystal also enjoyed traveling. Crystal and Jeffrey had many great adventures together, recently traveling to Istanbul and Spain.

Crystal was a loving and devoted wife. Her greatest joy in life was caring for her husband, Jeffrey. Crystal loved life and people, never meeting a stranger. She enjoyed talking with, becoming acquainted, and forming many friendships. Crystal loved her friends dearly and was a cherished friend to many. Crystal was always checking on her friends and doing everything that she could to make life a little easier for those that she loved. Crystal will be greatly missed.

Crystal had two other loves in her life, cats and wine. Crystal raised and nurtured many feline fur babies. All kitties loved Crystal and seemed to know that she was kind and safe spirit. Those who had the opportunity to share a glass of wine with Crystal, know that this was indeed a treat.

Crystal Yates is preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Isabel Haubner.

Crystal Yates is survived by her beloved husband, Jeffrey Yates, four beautiful cats, Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey "Baby" Hepburn, Frankie and Grace, her cousin, John Schumann and his family, as well as many friends.

Memorial donations are appreciated in lieu of flower arrangements. Donations can be made to the Taylor Jones Humane Society.