He was the long term minister of Christ Church parish, Middlesex, Virginia and continued in that place until his death.

He ascended to the presidency as the Board of Visitors attempted to wield greater influence over the College.

President Yates largely complied with the wishes of the Visitors, and the College expanded the faculty during this time.

He was the son of William Randolph, a colonist and land owner who played an important role in the history and government of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Thomas Lundie, rector of St. Andrew's Parish in Brunswick, Va.[6] Yates is the namesake of a residence hall at William & Mary.