Linda Sue Yates

Linda Sue Yates died Thursday, January 10, 2019, at the Flagstaff Regional Medical Center in Flagstaff, Arizona following a sudden illness.  She was 76 years old. Linda was born on a Thursday, October 8, 1942, in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan to her parents, the late Waldo T. and Maxine (Copeland) Gibbs.  Linda moved several times throughout her childhood and, during her high school years, the family moved to southern California, where she graduated high school.  

In 1962, while pumping gas at a gas station, Linda met the man of her dreams.  The two began a courtship that culminated into a beautiful marriage. She married Allen Yates on December 1, 1962, in Las Vegas, Nevada.  During the following year, they welcomed their firstborn son to their little family.  In the years that followed, Linda and Allen added four more children (including a set of twins) whom completed their big family.  Linda was a devoted wife to her husband for 56 years.  She was a loving mother to her five children and, together with Allen, taught values and life lessons that will bless each one throughout their lives.  As grandchildren were born and became part of the family, Linda's joy was magnified, tenfold!  Linda's parents taught her, at a young age, that her family would be the source of her greatest joy.  Her family, in a united voice, has said that Linda's "life was her family" and that, "she always put family first."  Linda looked forward to visiting family members throughout the country.  She loved a good road trip with her husband, as they always had a great time.  She especially enjoyed a vacation to Hawaii many years ago, and made sweet memories that have lasted a lifetime.  

Linda was a women of great talent.  She was a gifted artist and created some beautiful paintings throughout her life.  She painted with oil paints as well as watercolors.  She also did pencil sketches and drawings.  Many of her creations are beautiful masterpieces that now hang on the walls of many of her family members and friends.  To them, they are priceless treasures.  Linda also was a talented musician and entertained many people playing the "Squeeze Box" a.k.a. "the accordion."  She could even make that instrument sound beautiful!!!  

Linda was a patriotic lady who loved the United States of America and everything, for which she stands.  She has always honored our nation's flag and appreciated the sacrifices of our American soldiers.  She leaves behind an incredible Americana collection that includes: flags, statues and replicas of The Liberty Bell.  She was a woman of faith who daily lived her Christian values by helping others in need.  She helped feed the hungry. She gave drink to the thirsty.  She helped clothe the naked and visited the sick.  Linda's entire family all rise up and call her "Blessed."

Linda Sue Yates is survived by: her husband, Allen Yates of Snowflake, AZ; her 5 children: Paul (Robin) Yates of Mesa, AZ, Bryan (Jean) Yates of Taylor, AZ, Gerald Yates of Taylor, AZ, Cheryl Yates of Mesa, AZ, Joy (David) Tisher of Snowflake, AZ; her 3 sisters:  Jan (Jerry) Presswood of TX, Sandra (Doug) Koepp of WV, Anita (Frank) Schuma of Yuma, AZ; 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren (with 2 more on the way).  Along with her parents, Linda was preceded in death by a sister, Sharon Harper. 

The public viewing and friends' calling will be from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Thursday, January 17, 2019, at Owens Livingston Mortuary - Heritage Chapel: 84 E. 19th S. in Snowflake, Arizona.  The funeral service will begin 10:00 A.M., Friday, January 18, 2019, at Owens Livingston Mortuary - Heritage Chapel.  The concluding service and interment will immediately follow at the R.V. "Mike" Ramsay Memorial Cemetery in Snowflake, Arizona.

The Yates Family is thankful for the kindnesses extended to them during this difficult time and are especially grateful for all the prayers offered up on their behalf.