David S. Yates IV

David S. Yates, IV, 74, of Pawleys Island, passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Born in Columbia, South Carolina, he was a son of the late David S. Yates, III and Judith Doyle Long.

David was an accomplished professional fisherman whose career spanned several decades, winning major tournaments in every decade from the 1970s through the 2000s. As much as he enjoyed the thrill of competition, some of his greatest joy came from sharing his love of fishing with others. When he was not competing, David taught children to fish through the Irmo Chapin Recreation program. Some of his students went on to win tournaments of their own, while many others simply developed a lifelong love of fishing. For David, that was just as meaningful. He found pure joy in watching someone else catch a fish and took great pride in passing along something he loved so deeply.

David was also a supporter of Fishers of Men, a Christian fishing organization that brought together two important parts of his life, his faith and his love of the outdoors. His faith was at the heart of who he was, and he gave God the glory for the many remarkable experiences and opportunities he had throughout his life. He often said that the outdoors was his church, and it was there that he felt especially close to God.

An avid hunter as well, David was a champion duck caller and had no shortage of memorable hunting stories, including the time he shot a deer while lying on his back in a ditch. With his natural gift for storytelling, David could bring his adventures to life and enjoyed sharing them with those around him.

Above all, David was devoted to the people he loved. He was Linelle’s biggest cheerleader and encourager, always supporting her and taking pride in all she did. His love for his family, his faith, and the outdoors remained constant throughout his life.

Surviving are his wife, Linelle McCune Yates; children, Vanessa Traylor (Hartwell), James Settelen (Ann Marie), and Hunter Yates; grandchildren, Micaiah Traylor, Judah Traylor, Joel Traylor, Titus Settelen, Jensen Settelen, and Brock Settelen; sister, Kathryn Fripp Church; niece, Alyson Wells; and cousins, Gail Morse, Marty Yates, Bobby Yates, and Brian Yates. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a niece.

In accordance with David’s wishes, no formal services will be held at this time. Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Batesburg-Leesville Chapel, is assisting the Yates family.