GREENVILLE, Mississippi - Patricia Elizabeth Yeldell, age 71, of Greenville, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025.
Born on May 31, 1953, at the home of her grandparents in Greenville, Patricia "Pat" was the beloved daughter of the late Dr. James Burl Yeldell, Sr. and Gloria Clarice Sisson Yeldell. From the start, Pat carried a spirit that was both sweet and strong, mixing grace with a spark of humor and a heart full of service.
After graduating from Greenville High School in 1971, Pat attended Delta State University where she was initiated into Delta State’s first chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Pat earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from Delta State in 1975. She went on to touch countless lives as a Special Education and English teacher, retiring from O’Bannon School in the Western Line School District. After retirement, she continued her love for education by working at Delta Teaching Supply, where she eagerly assisted teachers, students, and parents—always with a smile and her signature thoughtfulness.
Pat adored her great-nieces and nephews—Micah, Caleb, Katherine, and Ava—who brought her unmatched joy. Whether entertaining them with games or simply spending time together, they were the heartbeat of her life.
She was known for doing quiet acts of kindness that left lasting impacts. Pat taught more than school lessons—she taught life lessons. From helping family members learn to drive, to building self-esteem in her students, to mentoring youth at church, Pat lived her life in service to others. One former student with a learning disability said she taught him lessons that stayed with him well into adulthood. Many called her their favorite teacher—the one who truly changed their lives.
A dedicated lifelong member of Calvary Presbyterian Church, Pat served faithfully as an ordained elder and treasurer. She worked tirelessly with the Rounds Scholarship Fund and guided the youth with love and patience. Each year, she poured her creativity into Vacation Bible School, where she was lovingly known as the "Master of Arts and Crafts."
Patricia loved entertaining and was famous for her Champagne Punch—though her friends knew her true signature drink was Diet Coke. A classic movie enthusiast who was fluent in sarcasm, Pat could make anyone laugh with her wit and warmth. She loved earrings and was always seen in a stylish pair that added sparkle to her presence and charm. Her beautiful smile and unforgettable laughter were her trademarks, and she made people around her feel genuinely loved and cared for.
Pat is survived by her devoted sisters: Iris Yeldell Stacker of Greenville; Cynthia (James) Anderson of Nashville, Tennessee; Ivy Ann (Steve) Allison of Atlanta, Georgia; and her loving brothers, Roderick (Linda) Yeldell of Plano, Texas; and Clay Yeldell of Greenville. Her legacy also lives on in her niece Tuyanda Blackwell and nephews Scott (Amanda) Yeldell, Lt. Colonel Ronando (Cinnamen) Moore, and Jarred Lamar Sisson (JoAnn) Stacker; as well as her cherished great-nieces and nephews Micah, Caleb, Katherine Elizabeth, and Ava Regina.
She also leaves behind a beloved cousin, Jacquelyn Davis, a godbrother, Carlton Crutchfield, two godsons, Erly Robinson, Jr. and Earl D’Wayne Robinson, and a host of cousins, additional great nieces and nephews, former students, church members, and friends who were better for having known her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. James Burl and Gloria Sisson Yeldell, and her brother James Burl Yeldell Jr.
