Yvonne Carol Wilson

Born on September 21, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio, Yvonne was the beloved daughter of the late John Henry and Helen Marshall Fanning. She received her education through the Cleveland Public School System and made the most important decision of her life in 1947 when she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at the historic Shiloh Baptist Church. Her unwavering faith remained her guiding light throughout her life and sustained her through her illness.

Yvonne was a woman of strength, resilience, and deep conviction. She dedicated over three decades of her life to Applied Industrial Technologies, where she was known for her strong work ethic and professionalism. She was also an active member of the Cleveland Postal Customers Council and retired after 31 years of distinguished service.

On February 2, 1957, Yvonne married William M. Wilson in holy matrimony. Together they shared a loving union that brought forth six children: Julie, William Craig, Noreen, Jeffrey, Helen, and William's daughter Shirdena. Her eldest son, William Craig Wilson, preceded her in death.

Family was the cornerstone of Yvonne's life. She loved her children dearly and rarely went anywhere without them by her side. A devoted mother and grandmother, she championed education and encouraged her children to pursue academic excellence. Known for her firm yet loving discipline-often punctuated by the familiar warning "I'm gonna throw my house-shoe at you"-Yvonne created a home filled with love, laughter, and purpose.

Her greatest joy came from spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She often expressed that she could not have been more blessed than with the family God gave her. Her legacy lives on through those who were fortunate enough to be part of her life.

Yvonne had many passions that enriched both her life and the lives of those around her. A self-taught gardener with a remarkable green thumb, she could grow anything she planted. Her sewing skills were equally impressive-she crafted beautiful garments for herself and her children with care and creativity. She also loved fishing and was an avid traveler. As a member of the Eastern Region Postal Council, she enjoyed cruising across the country and exploring new places.

Yvonne was preceded in death by her brother Henry and sisters Lillian, Joan, and Lois. She is survived by her brother Donald.

She leaves behind a legacy cherished by many: her children Julie Wilson Mason (Orlando) of Indianapolis, IN; Noreen Wilson of St. Marys, OH; Jeffrey Wilson of Chicago, IL; Helen Wilson Brown of Highland Heights, OH; and Shirdena Twymon of Cleveland Heights, OH; grandchildren Brandon Brown, Anthony Brown, Cameron Mason, and Justin Brown Sr.; great-grandchildren Janessa Smith, Iyana Brown, Aerrick Brown, Justin Brown II, Brielle Helena Brown, and Cannon Brixton Mason.

She will also be lovingly remembered by dear friends Gloria Garrett-who lovingly cared for Yvonne three days each week-and Beatrice Wentz; adopted daughters Gale Appleton, Jennifer Lattimore, Delores Love, Dr. Tanya Johnson, Sonyja Duling-el and her adopted son Sean L. Ward; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.