Aline Yates

In Loving Memory of Aline "Hope" Yates (1923 - 2024)

Hope Yates, a pillar of love, faith, and dedication, peacefully departed this world on March 5, 2024, at the remarkable age of 100. Her passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew her. Hope's legacy is one of boundless love, unwavering faith, and selfless service to others.

Hope was born on March 26, 1923, in Besoco, West Virginia, to the late Kenna and Lottie Martin. She was the eldest of eight children and grew up in a loving household filled with laughter and warmth. From a young age, Hope exhibited a compassionate spirit and a deep devotion to her family and community.

In 1946, Hope married the love of her life, Ray Yates, with whom she shared 70 beautiful years until his passing in 2016. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, love, and commitment. They were blessed with three children: Ellen, Lou Ann and Fred. Hope poured her heart and soul into nurturing her family, instilling in them the values of kindness, integrity, and compassion. Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were her greatest joy, and her unconditional love knew no bounds.

Hope's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was the oldest living and active member of Crab Orchard Baptist Church for over 70 years, where she found solace, community, and purpose. She dedicated countless hours to volunteering in various ministries, from Treasurer of the American Baptist Women Mission Circle No. 2 to serving meals with her best friends at church events, working many years at Crab Orchard Elementary School election station. Her unwavering commitment to serving others was an inspiration to all who knew her, and her impact on the church community will be felt for generations to come.

In addition to her devotion to family and church, Hope had a zest for life that was truly infectious. She had a love for gardening, baking, and hosting gatherings for family and friends. Her warm smile, gentle demeanor, and sage advice endeared her to all who crossed her path.

Hope leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She is survived by her children, Ellen Jussen, Fred Yates; her grandchildren, Jon "Chris" Hancock, Alisa Hope Hancock Evans, Lew Whitener, Shanel Hope Bodero, Cassidy Yates; her great-grandchildren, Lily Evans, Paul Evans, Dominic Bodero, Christian Bodero, Alezandria Hope Bodero; her sisters, Ruth, Ella Mae and Nancy; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ray; her parents, Kenna and Lottie; and her daughter, Lou Ann; brothers Kenna, Richard and Harold and sister Betty.

A celebration of her life was held on March 26, 2023 with 100 attendees from family and friends where she was loved and adored.

Hope's departure leaves an immense void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her beautiful spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched with her love, kindness, and grace.

Dear Hope, rest in peace. Your memory will be cherished forever.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hospice of Southern WV Inc. in Hope's memory.

The family will accept friends from 11:30am to12:30pm Monday, March 11, 2024 at Melton Mortuary and Cremation Center, Beckley. The committal will take place at 1:00pm at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley with Reverend Dewey Lowe. If you plan to go to the cemetery with the family, please be at Melton Mortuary and Cremation Center by 12:30pm for the procession.

Melton Mortuary and Cremation Center has been honored to assist the family with their arrangements.