Thelma "Sammy" Dell Yates

Ava, MO

Thelma Dell Yates, 96 years, passed to heaven on April 11, 2012 at Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare, Ava, MO.

Thelma "Sammy" was born January 18, 1916 in Ava, MO to Ebb and Chloe (Gott) Hodges.

"Sammy" was a lifelong resident of the Ava community. She had worked at the nursing home in Ava for many years. On November 30, 1935 "Sammy" and Hershel Yates were united in marriage in Ava, MO and to this union three children were born.

"Sammy" was a Christian and a member of the Sandy General Baptist Church. She enjoyed quilting, embroidery, reading, bowling and working at her puzzles.

"Sammy" was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Hershel, a son, Hershel, Jr., several brothers and sisters.

"Sammy" is survived by a son & wife, Dennis & Nancy Yates, Woodland, CA, a daughter & husband, Shirley & Charles "Chuck" Johnson, Vacaville, CA, six grandchildren, five great grandchildren, one brother, Austin Hodges, CA, one sister, Wanda Tipton, CO, special niece, Donna Haynes, Ava, MO, other nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

Graveside services for "Sammy" will be Monday, April 16, 2012, at 2:00 p.m. in the Union Grove Cemetery, Ava, MO (Crossroads). Officiating will be Pastor Neal Crum. Services are being conducted by Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Ava, MO.