JoAnne Yates

JoAnne was born on March 3, 1930 in Longview, Washington, to Harold and Joy (Walters) Estey. JoAnne and twin sister Jean joined older brother Jerry in the Estey Castle Rock, Washington home. JoAnne graduated as valedictorian from Castle Rock High School in 1948, and enrolled at Willamette University, where she earned a BA in Home Economics. JoAnne first became acquainted with Tom Yates while they were both students at Willamette University. They began dating in 1953 and were married on July 31, 1954, in the garden of the Castle Rock home where she was raised. Tom and JoAnne’s first home together was in Salem, where daughter Linda was born, followed by siblings Ken, Carol and Dan. The family lived briefly in Seattle, back to Salem and finally to Corvallis in 1963, with one-year sojourns in St. Paul, Minnesota and Perth, Western Australia. JoAnne was a consummate mother figure, evidenced by the character and professional success of her children. She worked as a legal secretary prior to the birth of her children, and later as a substitute librarian and office secretary in the Corvallis School District elementary schools. JoAnne was artistically creative, especially with her sewing machine. She was a long-time productive member of the Quilts From Caring Hands organization. During the last 25+ years she designed and made literally hundreds of quilts, most of which were donated to at-risk children. She was also very talented making beautiful stained-glass pieces, refinishing furniture, wood carving picture frames and gardening. Travel during retirement included trips to 19 states, 5 Canadian Provinces and a long overseas trip to England and Scotland. While in Scotland, JoAnne and Tom had the opportunity of a lifetime to play golf at The Old Course at St. Andrews. Closer to home JoAnne and Tom enjoyed vacationing at their timeshare condo at Eagle Crest Resort in Central Oregon, often inviting family and friends to join them. JoAnne’s husband Tom died eight days after her passing. She is survived by her children, Linda Cohoon, Ken Yates, Carol Haskell and Dan Yates, grandchildren, Jillian Hall and Kevin Yates and great grandchild, Betty Hall. Memorial contributions should be directed to Quilts From Caring Hands or Willamette University. JoAnne’s family is forever grateful for the outstanding care and support she received from The Regent Court Assisted Living facility over the last 5 years. The highly trained and compassionate staff gave JoAnne a very comfortable and supportive living experience. No funeral or services are planned at her request.

Tributes

JoAnne Yates

March 3, 1930 - November 21, 2025