Willie Mae Yearick passed away peacefully on September 25, 2024, at the age of 95. Born in Rugby, Virginia, to a store owner and a homemaker, Willie Mae grew up alongside three sisters and three brothers who adored her.

A spirited and active young woman, she attended the Virginia Carolina School, where she excelled in basketball and embraced her adventurous side as a Girl Scout. It was at a church box lunch event that she met her lifelong love, Bill Yearick. Bill’s clever bid on her lunch box led to a beautiful romance that culminated in their marriage when she was just 19 and the couple moved to Fairfax, Virginia.

While living in Fairfax, Willie Mae started her career at the Pentagon and continued working there until the birth of her first son, Kenneth. She cherished her journey into motherhood and completed their family with the arrival of her second son, Karlton. Their family eventually returned to Ashe County, where they built a loving home and instilled strong values in their boys.

Willie Mae's professional journey continued as she worked at the Draft Board and later at Nationwide Insurance, where she retired after many dedicated years. Yet, it was her role as a homemaker that filled her heart the most. She had a passion for gardening, taking pride in her flowers, and she found immense joy in cooking for her family. A proud grandmother and great-grandmother, Willie Mae reveled in the accomplishments of her loved ones, always putting family first and radiating pride in their successes.

Known for her class and kindness, Willie Mae left a lasting mark on all who knew her. She was a pillar of strength and grace, and her legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering support will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Willie Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Yearick and a son, Johnny Yearick.

Mrs. Yearick is survived by: two sons, Karlton Yearick (Vickie), of West Jefferson and Kenneth Yearick (Marylee), of Spruce Pine; a sister, Carolene Irvin, of Virginia; four grandchildren, Jessica Yearick, Kendra Yearick, Acosta (Nick), Kenton Yearick (Tori) and Peyton Yearick; two great-grandchildren, Nora Acost and Kyler Acosta; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at 11:00am at Boone Family Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Rick Miller and Rev. John Elledge officiating. Burial will follow in Ashelawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Medi Home Hospice, 1955 Newland Highway, Newland, NC 28657.