Celebrating the life of
Danny Lee Yarbrough, Jr.
July 05, 1944 - November 04, 2008
Danny Lee Yarbrough, Jr., 64, died Tuesday, November 4, 2008 at Memorial University Medical Center. He was a native of Atlanta, and lived in Savannah for the past four years. He was retired from Sony Music after 38 years of service. Danny served in the U.S. Army during which time he received a Bronze Star and a Silver Star. He was an active volunteer with Meals on Wheels, the T.J. Martell Foundation and S.C.O.R.E. Danny was a very generous and charismatic person who loved his church, Isle of Hope United Methodist Church where he participated in many mission trips.
He was preceded in death by his son, Matthew Yarbrough.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Mary Ellen Yarbrough, of Savannah, his mother, Alice Yarbrough, of Conyers, three sisters, Jane Smith, of Stockbridge, Dorothy Pardue, of Cleveland, GA, and Alicia Sawyer, of Conyers. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews who he loved dearly.
Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, November 6, 2008 at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.
Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 7, 2008 at Isle of Hope United Methodist Church.
Remembrances may be made to the Bethesda Home for Boys, the T.J. Martell Foundation 5550 Madison Ave, 3rd floor, New York, N.Y. 10022 or the charity of donor's choice.
Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
Dear Mary Ellen, My thoughts and prayers are with you upon Danny's passing. We had a great deal of fun working together and we solved some big challenges with a couple of artists where I believe we both cherished the accomplishments. I had so much respect for Danny and he remains one of my favorite friends from all of our working years. Good bless you, and please let me know if there is anything I can do to help in honoring Danny's memory. My best, Dan Beck
- Dan Beck, New York, NY
Dear Mary Ellen, I was very sorry to hear of Danny’s passing. It was a privilege to work for Danny on a daily basis some years ago, and I will never forget his laughter and spirit, along with the business lessons I learned from him. He was a great mentor and role model, had an incredible presence and made a huge impact on my life. My condolences to you and your family.
- Stephen Schmitt, Clifton Park, NY
Dear Mary Ellan We just returned from vacation, and the news of the loss of a dear friend was a shock. Danny and I were salesmen when we started with CBS and he kicked my butt for years winning Salesrep of the year awards and leaving me a bad second. Later in our careers he went to NY and I went to Nashville. In all the 40 years I spent with the company he was a true gentelman and friend, he even laughed at my dumb jokes. It is hard to accept the loss of such a good person. We are sure God has his reasons but can not figure out why. Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss and be assured he is in our prayers. With love and heart aches Connie and Jack Lameier Brentwood, Tn
- Jack Lameier, , GA
Music is your own experience, your own thoughts, your own wisdom.... Danny taught many of us to understand that. Danny was also a role model, cheerleader, policy enforcer and most of all a friend. Al Masocco
- Al Masocco, La Habra Heights, CA
My sincerest condolences to the Yarbrough family. Danny was one of the good guys. He will be missed.
- Larry R. Stessel, Nashville, TN
I am deeply saddened to hear of Danny’s passing. Danny touched so many lives both personally and professionally, and will be dearly missed. I will always cherish the memories of the weekend Irene, Ben, and I spent with you and Danny at your lovely home on Long Island. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Tim Shugars, Clawson, MI
A true friend is now missing from my life.
- Dennis Hannon, Nashville, TN
I'm so sorry to hear about this. Danny did me a huge favor years ago when I was just an FMR in Hollywood. He arranged an introduction for me with his contact at Sony in the UK for a possible transfer. Although it didn't pan out, I have never forgot the favor. God Bless him. Al
- Al Knobloch, Los Angeles, CA
Having been with cbs/sony music for 30 years i was lucky enough to know Danny thru those years. He was a early branch mananger in the detroit area when he was just starting out. He helped me thru the early years as a sales rep and will never forget his help in teaching me along. After he left i saw him at many conventions and sales meetings over the years. He was always outgoing and a joy to be with. May God bless him and family.
- james allen, sterling heights, MI
Mary Ellen, Mark and Family, I was so sorry to read about Dannys passing. I always knew him to be a fun person who loved life. I always felt welcome when I went over to his house. Please know you are in my prayers and I will be talking to you soon
- Stephen Downing, Savannah, GA
Dear Mary Ellen, Karen and I wish we could be with you during this sad time. We have so many memories of Danny over the last 30 plus years we have known the two of you. Take solace in the fact that Danny touched many, many lives and will be sadly missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers Mary Ellen. Jerry and Karen Adams
- Jerry Adams, Walled Lake, MI
Dear Mary Ellen, Our thoughts are with you and Danny's family. As part of Danny's CBS/Sony family, it was our great joy and privilege to share many good times with both Danny and you. We have many great memories and still speak about both of you all the time. You and Danny will always be a part of our extended family.
- Tom & Kat Gibson, Bentonville, AR
Mary Ellen and family, You are in our prayers and we are confident that God will comfort you with His love and His promises during these days. We all have great memories of growing up on the southside of Atlanta in an atmosphere that gave us roots and wings. Danny has left a legacy in many lives and is now enjoying the fulfillment of his faith in the presence of God. Blessings, Johnny 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
- John Yarbrough, Cleveland, Georgia, GA
To All Concerned: I worked with Danny for many years at Sony Music. He was always the epitomy of charm. His grace and magnanimous personality was larger than life and touched and warmed all he ever came in contact with. He will surely be missed; however, we must be vigilant to remember the fun, humor and love he brought to everyone. My prayers go out to his family. Thank you. Lots of Love, Amanda Gordon
- Amanda Gordon, New York, NY
I worked with Danny for many years when I was at Sony Music and he was a classy, thoughtful and sweet person. He was someone I always felt that I could go to with any problem and his door was always open. He will be remembered fondly by many. Sincerely, Janet Guerra
- Janet Guerra, New York, NY
Mary Ellen.....my deepest sympathy to you. Danny was a great friend and one of my heroes for over 30 years.
- Lew Garrett, Delray Beach, FL
It is with great sadness that I sign this guest book. I extend my deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Yarbrough who I worked with at Sony Music for many years in Steven Shimp's department. My Yarbrough graciously presented me with my 25 year service award. I will never forget my days at CBS Records and Sony Music.
- Angela Pecora, Bohemia, NY
Our hearts and prayers are with you now as we cherish the smiles, the memories and the man whose life influenced so many. Danny's southern wit, grace and charm were magnetic. He will be held in the hearts and fond memories of many; one of them is mine. Sincerely, Dawn Thompson Bruhn
- Dawn Bruhn, Anthem, GA
Danny was a very special person that will always be remembered for his charismatic smile and overwhelming personality. I remember when I first started in the record business, Danny being the local Sales Rep for CBS and I thought to myself, 'That's what i want to do.' He was loved by all and will be remembered by all. All our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
- L.C. Hensley, Atlanta, GA
Mary Ellen and Family, As an employee of CBS Records and Sony Music, I worked for over 30 years in many departments ending in the Record Room, that reported to indirectly to Danny. My memories of Danny are ones of fairness, support for his staff and his sense of humor. Please accept my sincerest sympathy.
- Teri Blekicki, Cumberland, RI
To Mary Ellen & Family Danny's many friends and colleagues at NARM are deeply saddened by his passing. He was such a strong leader and active participant in NARM for many, many years. The support that you both showed for our Scholarship Foundation was always greatly appreciated. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this extremely difficult time. Everyone at NARM will celebrate Danny's memory.
- Jim Donio, Marlton, NJ
Dear Mary Ellen, We both want you to know how saddened we are at the loss of Danny. He lit up a room with his bigger than life personality. A one of a kind. God bless you and your family.
- Bob & Sandy Bean, Lake Orion, MI
Too Fast- Too Soon. God has asked for a strong mind and arm above. Mary Ellen has lost a great partner. My deepest regrets to her only to have spent a short time with her as two wives of CBS Executives I know that when you moved to Dallas- we exchanged places in Atlanta with you- and sadly enough, we both had little boy sons-....life moves us to different endings. Gods Special Blessings to you Mary Ellen. You are a dear survivor and great lady.
- Dorothy Metting, atlanta, GA
Mary Ellen- My deepest sympathies on the loss of Danny. I was a co-worker at Sony with Danny and he was always a gentleman in a business containing very few. Wishing you my condolences and hopes that you are finding comfort in your memories of the great times with Danny.
- Nick Terzo, Brooklyn, NY
One of the great ones has left us too early. Danny was a great person to know and to work with. Always professional and a gentleman to all. He and his family will be in my prayers for a long time. God Bless them all.
- Roselind Blanch, Naples, FL
Dear MaryEllen, Your extended music industry family mourns with you during this difficult time. Danny was deeply loved and cherished by many. May your many happy memories of Danny help bring you some comfort. Jane and I are so sorry that we will be unable to attend the services, but our thoughts and prayers are strongly with you. With heartfelt sympathy, John Spielberger
- John Spielberger, Towaco, NJ
Dear Mary Ellen, My thoughts and prayers are with you upon Danny's passing. We had a great deal of fun working together and we solved some big challenges with a couple of artists where I believe we both cherished the accomplishments. I had so much respect for Danny and he remains one of my favorite friends from all of our working years. Good bless you, and please let me know if there is anything I can do to help in honoring Danny's memory. My best, Dan Beck
- Dan Beck, New York, NY
Dear Mary Ellen, I was very sorry to hear of Danny’s passing. It was a privilege to work for Danny on a daily basis some years ago, and I will never forget his laughter and spirit, along with the business lessons I learned from him. He was a great mentor and role model, had an incredible presence and made a huge impact on my life. My condolences to you and your family.
- Stephen Schmitt, Clifton Park, NY
Dear Mary Ellan We just returned from vacation, and the news of the loss of a dear friend was a shock. Danny and I were salesmen when we started with CBS and he kicked my butt for years winning Salesrep of the year awards and leaving me a bad second. Later in our careers he went to NY and I went to Nashville. In all the 40 years I spent with the company he was a true gentelman and friend, he even laughed at my dumb jokes. It is hard to accept the loss of such a good person. We are sure God has his reasons but can not figure out why. Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss and be assured he is in our prayers. With love and heart aches Connie and Jack Lameier Brentwood, Tn
- Jack Lameier, , GA
Music is your own experience, your own thoughts, your own wisdom.... Danny taught many of us to understand that. Danny was also a role model, cheerleader, policy enforcer and most of all a friend. Al Masocco
- Al Masocco, La Habra Heights, CA
My sincerest condolences to the Yarbrough family. Danny was one of the good guys. He will be missed.
- Larry R. Stessel, Nashville, TN
I am deeply saddened to hear of Danny’s passing. Danny touched so many lives both personally and professionally, and will be dearly missed. I will always cherish the memories of the weekend Irene, Ben, and I spent with you and Danny at your lovely home on Long Island. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Tim Shugars, Clawson, MI
A true friend is now missing from my life.
- Dennis Hannon, Nashville, TN
I'm so sorry to hear about this. Danny did me a huge favor years ago when I was just an FMR in Hollywood. He arranged an introduction for me with his contact at Sony in the UK for a possible transfer. Although it didn't pan out, I have never forgot the favor. God Bless him. Al
- Al Knobloch, Los Angeles, CA
Having been with cbs/sony music for 30 years i was lucky enough to know Danny thru those years. He was a early branch mananger in the detroit area when he was just starting out. He helped me thru the early years as a sales rep and will never forget his help in teaching me along. After he left i saw him at many conventions and sales meetings over the years. He was always outgoing and a joy to be with. May God bless him and family.
- james allen, sterling heights, MI
Mary Ellen, Mark and Family, I was so sorry to read about Dannys passing. I always knew him to be a fun person who loved life. I always felt welcome when I went over to his house. Please know you are in my prayers and I will be talking to you soon
- Stephen Downing, Savannah, GA
Dear Mary Ellen, Karen and I wish we could be with you during this sad time. We have so many memories of Danny over the last 30 plus years we have known the two of you. Take solace in the fact that Danny touched many, many lives and will be sadly missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers Mary Ellen. Jerry and Karen Adams
- Jerry Adams, Walled Lake, MI
Dear Mary Ellen, Our thoughts are with you and Danny's family. As part of Danny's CBS/Sony family, it was our great joy and privilege to share many good times with both Danny and you. We have many great memories and still speak about both of you all the time. You and Danny will always be a part of our extended family.
- Tom & Kat Gibson, Bentonville, AR
Mary Ellen and family, You are in our prayers and we are confident that God will comfort you with His love and His promises during these days. We all have great memories of growing up on the southside of Atlanta in an atmosphere that gave us roots and wings. Danny has left a legacy in many lives and is now enjoying the fulfillment of his faith in the presence of God. Blessings, Johnny 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
- John Yarbrough, Cleveland, Georgia, GA
To All Concerned: I worked with Danny for many years at Sony Music. He was always the epitomy of charm. His grace and magnanimous personality was larger than life and touched and warmed all he ever came in contact with. He will surely be missed; however, we must be vigilant to remember the fun, humor and love he brought to everyone. My prayers go out to his family. Thank you. Lots of Love, Amanda Gordon
- Amanda Gordon, New York, NY
I worked with Danny for many years when I was at Sony Music and he was a classy, thoughtful and sweet person. He was someone I always felt that I could go to with any problem and his door was always open. He will be remembered fondly by many. Sincerely, Janet Guerra
- Janet Guerra, New York, NY
Mary Ellen.....my deepest sympathy to you. Danny was a great friend and one of my heroes for over 30 years.
- Lew Garrett, Delray Beach, FL
It is with great sadness that I sign this guest book. I extend my deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Yarbrough who I worked with at Sony Music for many years in Steven Shimp's department. My Yarbrough graciously presented me with my 25 year service award. I will never forget my days at CBS Records and Sony Music.
- Angela Pecora, Bohemia, NY
Our hearts and prayers are with you now as we cherish the smiles, the memories and the man whose life influenced so many. Danny's southern wit, grace and charm were magnetic. He will be held in the hearts and fond memories of many; one of them is mine. Sincerely, Dawn Thompson Bruhn
- Dawn Bruhn, Anthem, GA
Danny was a very special person that will always be remembered for his charismatic smile and overwhelming personality. I remember when I first started in the record business, Danny being the local Sales Rep for CBS and I thought to myself, 'That's what i want to do.' He was loved by all and will be remembered by all. All our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
- L.C. Hensley, Atlanta, GA
Mary Ellen and Family, As an employee of CBS Records and Sony Music, I worked for over 30 years in many departments ending in the Record Room, that reported to indirectly to Danny. My memories of Danny are ones of fairness, support for his staff and his sense of humor. Please accept my sincerest sympathy.
- Teri Blekicki, Cumberland, RI
To Mary Ellen & Family Danny's many friends and colleagues at NARM are deeply saddened by his passing. He was such a strong leader and active participant in NARM for many, many years. The support that you both showed for our Scholarship Foundation was always greatly appreciated. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this extremely difficult time. Everyone at NARM will celebrate Danny's memory.
- Jim Donio, Marlton, NJ
Dear Mary Ellen, We both want you to know how saddened we are at the loss of Danny. He lit up a room with his bigger than life personality. A one of a kind. God bless you and your family.
- Bob & Sandy Bean, Lake Orion, MI
Too Fast- Too Soon. God has asked for a strong mind and arm above. Mary Ellen has lost a great partner. My deepest regrets to her only to have spent a short time with her as two wives of CBS Executives I know that when you moved to Dallas- we exchanged places in Atlanta with you- and sadly enough, we both had little boy sons-....life moves us to different endings. Gods Special Blessings to you Mary Ellen. You are a dear survivor and great lady.
- Dorothy Metting, atlanta, GA
Mary Ellen- My deepest sympathies on the loss of Danny. I was a co-worker at Sony with Danny and he was always a gentleman in a business containing very few. Wishing you my condolences and hopes that you are finding comfort in your memories of the great times with Danny.
- Nick Terzo, Brooklyn, NY
One of the great ones has left us too early. Danny was a great person to know and to work with. Always professional and a gentleman to all. He and his family will be in my prayers for a long time. God Bless them all.
- Roselind Blanch, Naples, FL
Dear MaryEllen, Your extended music industry family mourns with you during this difficult time. Danny was deeply loved and cherished by many. May your many happy memories of Danny help bring you some comfort. Jane and I are so sorry that we will be unable to attend the services, but our thoughts and prayers are strongly with you. With heartfelt sympathy, John Spielberger
- John Spielberger, Towaco, NJ
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200

