August 12, 1941 - December 14, 2024
In the early hours of December 14, Olivia Ann Yates passed away peacefully after many days surrounded and cared for by those closest to her.
Born on August 12, 1941, to H. H. and Ruth Morris Tidwell, Olivia Ann Yates brought warmth, love, and wisdom into every life she touched. She was a born leader with quiet words and expression, who proudly wore and exceeded the mantle of ‘teacher.’
Olivia was proceeded in death by her beloved parents and adored brother, Franklin “Sonny” Tidwell.
Mrs. Yates is survived by her husband of 62 years, Wayne “Rowdy” Yates; her son, Frank (Angie) Yates, her sister, Claudette Tidwell Dobbins; her grandchildren, Orey (Brittany), Tristan (Maleiha), Stone (Lauren), and Cruz Yates; her great-grandchildren, Owen and Annabeth Yates; her nephews Kenneth and Stanley Hill, her nieces Cynthia Wells, and Stephanie Tidwell; her beloved and wonderful nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, many beloved special Morris cousins; and the countless students whose lives she shaped as a passionate and proud educator.
A memorial service officated by cherished Cousin David Long will be held for Mrs. Yates at Ryan Funeral Home in Trenton (11415 S Main St, Trenton) on Monday, December 16th at 1:00 PM EST with visitation beginning at 11:00 AM EST.
In lieu of flowers, send donations to North Sand Mountain Library and Media Center; P.O. Box 129 Higdon, AL 35979
No words written here would do justice to the canyon-sized legacy left by such a loved and influential woman. Books could be written for and about a woman so well-cherished. Instead, we shall with a few words from the woman herself, in reflection and expectation of this very day;
“(Life) has been wonderful to me in most instances. My family and career have made it so. Teaching was my passion; my family, my treasure. My students were my gems in the diadem of life. I love my family and friends deeply enough that it approaches perfection.”
