Emory Wyly Yant, Sr., 82, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and pastor.

Born July 25, 1944, in El Reno, Oklahoma, Emory was the youngest child of Curtis Clyde Yant and Ruby May Davis Yant. His siblings included Curtis Clyde Yant, Jr., Myrna Jewn Yant, and Bert Terry Yant.

Emory proudly served his country in the United States Army, including service with the Honor Guard at Arlington National Cemetery, and the 3rd Infantry Division. Among his most cherished military honors was the privilege of standing guard over President John F. Kennedy as he lay in state in the U.S. Capitol following his assassination on November 22, 1963. It was an experience Emory remembered with great pride throughout his life.

Following his military service, he joined the Fort Worth Police Department, where he served as a motorcycle officer, riding a Harley-Davidson equipped with the old-fashioned "suicide clutch." While working full-time as a police officer, Emory earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Wesleyan College. He later became a Captain with the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport Police during the construction and opening of DFW Airport in 1974.

Emory subsequently joined Charles Machine Works in Perry, Oklahoma, serving as a factory representative for Ditch Witch. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to Savannah, Georgia, where he purchased into and operated a Ditch Witch dealership. After selling his dealership interests, he continued his professional career in the insurance industry.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Emory's greatest legacy was his commitment to serving others. An active member of Powers Baptist Church in Eden, Georgia, he lived his faith through generosity, friendship, and service. He was deeply involved in the recovery community, offering encouragement, guidance, and hope to countless individuals and families. His willingness to help someone in need, often without recognition or expectation of anything in return, touched more lives than can ever be counted.

An avid motorcycle enthusiast, Emory found great joy in riding and in the fellowship of fellow riders. He was particularly passionate about supporting veterans as part of the Patriot Guard Riders and faithfully participated in the annual Beaufort Toy Run for 16 consecutive years. Whether serving his church, supporting someone in recovery, or riding for a charitable cause, Emory believed in making a difference in the lives of others.

Emory married Peggy Jean McDougal on April 4, 1964, and together they had three sons. On August 26, 2000, he married Deloris Ennis, welcoming her two sons into his family. Emory is survived by his loving wife, Deloris, and his former wife, Peggy Elliott (Ian). His legacy lives on through five sons, 13 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

His surviving family includes: Emory "Chip" W. Yant, Jr. (Deena), children, Janet Noelle Martin (Kenny) and Nathan Wyly Yant; and grandchildren Cadence Noelle Martin and Hunter George Martin.

Michael R. Yant (Abbie), and five sons, Greyson Wyly Rowe Yant, William Heyward Yant, Henry Michael Yant, Ezra Johnston Yant, and Oliver Hammond Yant.

Robert A. Yant (Tiffany), and their daughter, Rayna Kathryn Yant.

Anthony Joyner (Kristy), and children, Morgan Conners (Kyle) and Nicholas Joyner (Blair); and grandchildren Weston Connors, Kason Connors, and Christian Connors (Morgan's children), and Everleigh Joyner and Livie Joyner (Nicholas's children).

Wesley Joyner (Mindy), and three children, Rylan Joyner and twins Rayne Joyner and Rivers Joyner.

Emory's family was a source of tremendous pride and joy. Emory will be remembered for his faith, his generous heart, his love of family, and his unwavering willingness to help others. His legacy lives on not only through his family, but through the many lives he impacted along the way.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026 from 1:30 - 3:00 PM at Powers Baptist Church, 1104 US Hwy 80, Eden, GA 31307

A celebration of Emory's life will follow at 3:00 PM with Pastor Frank McDonough officiating.

Burial will be held at Powers Baptist Church Cemetery with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Powers Baptist Church in Eden, Georgia, or to the Beaufort Toy Run in support of its charitable work with children and veterans.

Checks can be sent for either cause in care of :

Powers Baptist Church

PO Box 730

Eden, GA 31307