Brian Truett Yates

It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to Brian Truett Yates, born November 23, 1984, and taken from us far too soon on August 10, 2025.

Brian had a gift. He was fun, quick-witted, and always ready with a smile or a joke. You never had to wonder if he was happy to see you—his laughter and smile made that clear. He was always the life of any gathering, bringing people together with joy.

Music was a big part of Brian’s life. He loved playing guitar, making music, and sharing that joy with others. Whether it was a small get-together or just an afternoon at home, he had a way of turning moments into memories.

A proud graduate of Elysian Fields High School in 2003, Brian served as president of his class every single year and earned numerous academic awards for his achievements. He went on to graduate from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Geography.

Following college, Brian built a career dedicated to safety and service. He worked at North Houston Pole Line and Williams Brickworks as a safety manager and later started his own company, True Health, Safety, and Environmental, where he used his knowledge and leadership to protect and guide others in their work. 

Brian's true legacy wasn’t in titles, accolades, or degrees—it was in the people he touched. Brian was the kind of person you couldn’t help but like. People were drawn to his warmth, his humor, and his genuine nature. Through his service at Shreveport Community Church, he found ways to help others through their own challenges. He could sit with someone in their hardest moment and make them feel understood, accepted, and even a little lighter than when he found them. 

He is survived by his beloved son, Truett; his parents, Darrell and Kathryn; and his brothers—Chad, Jason, and Matthew, along with Matthew’s family: his wife, Jeanie, and their children, Nevaeh, Gracie, Blake, and Mattie. Beyond his immediate family, Brian leaves behind a wide circle of friends who felt more like family, and whose lives are brighter for having known him. 

Brian’s light shone brightly—so brightly that it feels impossible for it to have gone out so soon. But light doesn’t truly disappear. It lingers in the smiles he inspired, in the laughter he left behind, in the music that will forever remind us of him. 

Though we wish we had more time, we hold on to the gift of the time we did have. And we carry his spirit forward by doing exactly what he did best—bringing joy to others, lifting people up, and making life a little brighter. 

Brian’s parents, Darrell and Kathryn, wish for privacy during this difficult time. If you feel the need to reach out to talk or offer condolences, please contact Chad. Donations can be made to Shreveport Community Church or DeBerry Baptist Church in his honor. We also ask that you remember Brian, share his stories, and help keep his light alive as we heal from this loss. 

We love you, Brian. And while it’ll never be the same without you, we know you are with God and at peace now. Help us to find our own peace as we carry on. We know you’ll be saving us a seat in heaven, and we'll see your smile again when we join you.