Ruth Yancey

Presence, Wednesday, November 26, 2014 at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. She was born January 29, 1947 in Chicago, Illinois. She was a member of Westwood Baptist Church, in Poplar Bluff where she attended faithfully. She and her family moved to Ellsinore in 1980. Her 30 year profession as a Headstart Director of East Carter County District began in 1983. Her passion of teaching was an impact on young children who now span the continent. On November 14, 1964, she and James D. Yancey were united in marriage. He survives her. To this union three children were born; James D. Yancey, April A. Yancey, and Kevin H. Yancey. Surviving are sons Jim and his wife Gina, and Kevin and his wife Kara. She is survived by nine grandchildren; Joe, Nathan, Kerrec, Scott, Tara, Kirsten, Dakota, Lydia, and Gabriel, and one great grandson, Draedyn. Also surviving; a sister, Cherree Thomas of Chicago, Illinois, numerous nieces, nephews and a multitude of beloved friends. She was preceded in death by her daughter, April Yancey Lyons, her father and mother; Howard and May Close, grandparents, two brothers-in-law, two nephews, aunts, uncles, and a host of dearest friends. Visitation for friends and family will be Thursday, December 4th, 12-1 pm at Westwood Baptist Church. A "Celebration of Her Life" memorial service will immediately follow, officiated by her pastor, Dr. Steve Proctor. No graveside service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital of Memphis, Tennessee, or her favorite charity this time of year - the Salvation Army Bell Ringers.