Natalie Yonner Yancey

Natalie Yonner Yancey passed away on September 5, 2026 in Pensacola, Florida at the age of 88. She was born in Pennsylvania on August 18, 1938, to Martin Yonner and Elaine Haupte.

She graduated from Chester High School and spent the majority of her life in South Boston, Virginia, where she built a life centered around family, faith, generosity, and service to others.

A member of Glenwood United Methodist Church, her faith was an important part of her life, and she was deeply dedicated to her church. She was active in her community and generously gave both her time and support to numerous charitable organizations and causes.

She retired from Halifax Regional Hospital as a switchboard operator. Her many years there reflected the same sense of commitment and service that she carried into so many areas of her life.

She also had a great appreciation for history and a particular interest in the Civil War, a subject she enjoyed learning about and studying over the years.

She is survived by her daughter, Lenora Garabedian and husband Ed; her son, Darrin Rydzewski and wife Melissa; her daughter-in-law, Kimberly Rydzewski; as well as her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Martin Yonner and Elaine Haupte; her husband, Melvin Yancey; two of her children, Dorene Monroe and Kevin Rydzewski; and her sisters, Ildra Miekle and Shirley Salmon.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 11, 2026 at Glenwood United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends after the service.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, church family, and all whose lives she touched.

Arrangements are lovingly provided by Brooks Lyon Funeral and Cremation Services, 115 Main Street, South Boston, VA.