Dana was born on May 29, 1957, in Coleman, Texas, to Billy and Mary Griffin. She was the oldest daughter and second oldest of five children — three brothers and one sister. Dana earned a Bachelor’s degree in Math and English from Angelo State University and later completed her Master’s in Education from Angelo State University.
Dana spent the majority of her life in pursuit of education and service to others. She taught in public schools for over 30 years before retiring and opening her own private school, where she continued teaching for the past 15 years until her passing. Though she once dreamed of becoming the first female astronaut, her path ultimately led her to the classroom — and she never looked back. Teaching was not just a profession for Dana; it was a calling. Her passion for helping students grow in both knowledge and confidence was evident to all who knew her.
Dana also had a deep and abiding faith. She often shared that shortly after being saved at six years old, she made a covenant with God: “I’ll pray for them, and You save them.” Those who knew her well understood that she lived a life grounded in prayer and quiet conviction.
She is survived by her two sons, Rick Yancy and Andrew Yancy, and her five grandchildren: Daniel, Madeleine, Nicole, Nathaniel, and Joshua. She was preceded in death by her husband and the love of her life, Ronnie D. Yancy.
Visitation will be held at Cashner Funeral Home in Conroe, Texas, on Monday, February 16, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Cashner Funeral Home with a graveside service to follow.
Dana will be deeply missed, but her legacy lives on in the countless students she taught and the family she loved so fiercely. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is at peace and reunited with her husband.
