Shirley Yvonne Yates, a beloved and cherished individual, passed away on December 18, 2025, at the age of 90. "Yvonne", as she was known by her family and friends was born on August 7, 1935, in Howard County, Missouri, she was the daughter of Aubrey R. and Massie (Wilhite) Naylor. She grew up on a farm surrounded by turkeys, chickens, and sheep, and graduated from Fairview High School.
In her early years, Yvonne worked as a telephone operator. Her husband's career required frequent relocations, making it challenging for her and her family to set down roots. Despite this, Yvonne became involved in selling Avon, where she found success by attending to the needs of her community.
Yvonne married the love of her life because “he was a great kisser”, Nevin Charles Yates, and together they raised their son, Kirk. She was a devoted wife and mother, with her family being her number one priority. Known as the glue of her family, Yvonne maintained close connections with everyone, sending birthday cards each year. She loved to travel and take long car rides.
In addition to being a collector of Indian trinkets, art (like Norman Rockwell) and bird figurines, Yvonne was a member of Johnson County Christian Church. She devoted time to her church group and enjoyed planning lunches/dinners with her Bible Study group. Yvonne also found joy in gardening, especially growing flowers. Her gentle and thoughtful presence will be sadly missed.
Yvonne is preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband Nevin, who passed away on November 30, 2005, three brothers, Aubrey Jr, Wayne, Ronnie Naylor, and one sister, Norma Jean Copeland, and her grandchildren’s mother Sue. She is survived by her loving son Kirk Yates and his wife Robyn of St. Peter's, Missouri. Left to cherish her memory are her five grandchildren: Faylynn (Ellie) Yates and her wife Cindy of Georgetown, Kentucky; Trick (Motley) Rex of Columbia, Missouri; Brad Hampton and his wife Andrea of Wentzville, Missouri; Melanie Wright and her husband Colin of Fenton, Missouri; and Anthony Hampton and his fiancée Emily of St. Peter's, Missouri. She also leaves behind four great-grandchildren: Riley, Joseph, Reagan, and Presley.
Yvonne's generous, kind-hearted, and honest nature touched the lives of many, leaving a legacy of devotion and hard work. Her thoughtful and gentle spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.
The visitation will be Friday, December 26, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at McGilley and Frye Funeral Home 105 East Loula Street Olathe, Kansas. Funeral Service will be Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at McGilley and Frye Funeral Home with burial to follow at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens 13901 South Black Bob Road Olatjhe, Kansas. In lieu of flowers: ShowMe Christian Youth Home, 24302 Mahin road, P.O. Box 6, LaMonte, MO 65337. The family asks that no Lillies be sent, please.
