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Celebrating the life of

Paul W. (Dusty) Yarbrough, Jr.

November 27, 1946 - September 29, 2025

Paul W. (Dusty) Yarbrough, Jr.

Paul W. “Dusty” Yarbrough Jr. passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family at his side on Monday September 29,2025.

Dusty was born in Thomaston Ga on November 27,1946 to Paul and Wynell (Watson) Yarbrough. He was the middle son in between older sister Jan Turner and younger brother Alben Yarbrough.  He attended R.E.LEE high school where he graduated from in the c/o ’64.It was during this time that he met his soulmate Carole “Faye “ Barker. It wouldn’t take long before these two knew that they were meant for one another and married on February 4,1965.He considered himself the luckiest man in the world.  They would come to welcome two sons Paul W. “Rusty” Yarbrough 3rd in November 1st 1965 and second son John Ashley Yarbrough August 7th 1970.

He would continue his education at Ga. State University earning a degree in Engineering. After earning his degree he moved the family to Columbus GA. Where he went to work for the GADOT. They would remain there until 1974 before moving to Savannah GA .Initially intended for a brief stay this turned into their permanent home .While working for his brother Alben and childhood friend Ansley Williams the three had come up with a concept for a new place to open which came to fruition on December 16th 1976 known as Spanky’s Pizza Galley and Saloon soon to be “Home of the Original Chicken Finger ”. What was about to happen no one could really prepare for .Its here that he made countless friends ,extended family ,lifelong  friendships and a legacy that will remembered . There would be more locations opened throughout the years and you could usually find him at Spankys Southside at the corner with a slew of friends at a place where everybody knows your name and all are like family. Still going strong to this day.

He thoroughly enjoyed life to its fullest and his laughter was quite contagious. His cabin and being outdoors was certainly a favorite. Many canoe trips down the Ogeechee that he looked forward to . He was also a huge Falcons, UGA , Braves (not always easy) but always his teams. He helped found the Help Save one of our Own foundation helping many throughout the years and always maintained …this will be 100% volunteers and no red tape to help someone in need .

He also enjoyed his Happy Hour with friends and  family and a Crown Royal was mandatory with a good music background .

As he had a few nicknames the one that would stick the longest would “Fafer” to which we all called him after his first grandchild Ash coined that name turning grandfather into Fafer.

Dusty is survived by his wife Faye , sons Paul “Rusty Yarbourgh , John Yarbrough(Brooke) grandchildren John Ashley Yarbrough Jr., Sophia Elizabeth Yarbrough , Evan Wynn Yarbrough , great grandson Cash William Yarbrough all of Savannah Ga . Sister Jan Turner of Atlanta and brother Alben Yarbrough of Jackson Lake Ga and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 17th. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday October, 18, 2025 at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Memorial with a celebration of life following from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Spankys Southside. 

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hospice Savannah , 1352 Eisenhower Dr. or your favorite charity.

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

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GUEST BOOK

My prayers for the family. May he Rest in Peace. What he and the others created in Spankys will never be matched. A true Savannah icon.

- Brian S O'Neal, Savannah, GA

My deepest condolences Faye, Rusty, John and family. Dusty did so much for his community with the biggest heart. I am forever thankful for all he did for my family and me! The song "Achy Breaky Heart" has a new meaning for me - I'll remember Dusty fondly everytime I hear it. Love to you all. Melanie Christian

- Melanie Christian, Denver, CO

Sorry for your loss he was a special person to lot's of people. JY love ya brother.

- Bobby Foust, Franklin , NC

He was a very kind and generous person who I know will be missed. Sending hugs and prayers to all of you.

- Suzy Buelvas, Savannah, GA

My sincerest condolences to the family. Many prayers for peace.

- Jeanette Dara, Everton , Missouri

We will all miss our cousin Dusty. My condolences to Faye, Rusty and John and families.

- Lesley Fant, Griffin, GA

Dust was a man of integrity and compassion, with a strong love of family. Faye, John and Rusty, my condolences to you and your families. My love and respect to you all.

- James" Bubba" Tanner, Brooklet , Ga.

So sorry to hear.

- Belinda Sue Hagins, Savannah, GA

Prayers for the Yarbrough family for the loss of Rusty. He was a friend and brother to many in Savannah and will be missed. I am so sorry for your loss Rusty and John. I hope that you and your family will find peace. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

- Lacey Godec, Savannah, GA

Prayers for the family.. Great man will be missed!!

- Matt starling, Savannah , Ga

Sending much love to all of you...Dusty was much loved by the members of the R.E. Lee Class of 1964!! He hosted our 15th class reunion at Spanky's on the river front...a fun time! He had a caring heart and a special friend to many. Fay, please know you all are in our thoughts, hearts, and prayers!!

- Luanne Daniel Helms, Thomaston, Georgia

Sad to hear of Dusty passing Prayers for Faye, Rusty, John and all The Family's.What a Good Man R.I.P. DUSTY.

- Richard Hearn, Springfield, GA

Barla

- Paula Barla, Savannah, Georgia

My Condolences to this family

- The Hayward family , Savannah , Georgia

Our condolences to the Yarbrough family Rest in Peace Dusty. We will never forget all the good times we had at Spankys Southside where we met and got engaged. Love Tim and Stephanie Cowart

- TIMOTHY A COWART, POOLER, GA

Praying for all.

- Steve & Fran Todd, Guyton , GA

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200


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