Jeannette Gardner Yates

Jeannette Yates, 95 of Odenton, Maryland died at home Tuesday May 5, after celebrating her 95th birthday on Monday, May 4!

She was born in a small town of Lonaconing, MD at home where she lived before marrying her husband, William B Yates, Jr. of Frostburg, MD. They were married for 50 years. They met at Frostburg State College where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education and went on to earn her Masters degree. To pursue her career Jeanette left Western Maryland. She was a 2nd grade elementary teacher in Prince George’s County and later became a Principal at Lamont Elementary. Her entire 25-year career was dedicated to the school system.

After her career, she moved to a retirement community in Annapolis, MD and spent her winters in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She eventually took up the sport of golf and was part of the Lady Golf Club. She also enjoyed playing shuffleboard. Jeannette was an avid reader and loved to dance. She created and taught line dances in the retirement community where she lived. She also started the weekly 500 card club with many of her friends. She traveled all over the world and often spoke of the many experiences of her travels. At the age of 89, Jeannette traveled by herself to Iceland. This was the last trip she took and fondly remembered it is as one of her best adventures.

Jeannette lived her life to the fullest and shared her wisdom and strength to all she knew.

She is survived by her daughter, Margaret Yates and brother, John Gowans. Her husband and Son, Steven Yates, preceded her in death as well as her older brother, James Gowans.

She is also survived by nieces, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews.

Her celebration of life honoring her memory will be announced and held at a later time. Her final resting place will be Hillcrest Cemetery in Cumberland, Maryland in the family plot.

Memorial donations can be sent to the First Presbyterian Church in Lonaconing to support the summer lunch box program. Jeannette gave her career to helping children and this program provides nutritious lunches for all eligible school children in the area. Jeannette attended this church and also was married there.

First Presbyterian Church

1 East Main Street

Lonaconing, MD 21539