COLLEYVILLE - Willa Jo Yater, of Colleyville, died Apr. 28, 2020, at Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Grapevine, at the age of 88. A private graveside service will be 11:30 AM, May 1, at the Evergreen Cemetery Chapel in Stanton with Reverend David Harp officiating.
She was born in Buffalo Gap, June 15, 1931 to parents Willard and Laudie Rogers. Raised in that area, she graduated from Hawley High School and attended Hardin Simmons University in Abilene.
In 1951, she married Bobby Joe Petree and together they had two daughters. She realized her dream of becoming a teacher by completing her Master of Education degree from Sul Ross University in Alpine.
After moving to Stanton in 1970, she began her career teaching elementary school; moved on to become the Stanton High School guidance counselor; and completed her tenure in the department of Special Programs, retiring in 1990. Mrs. Petree/Yater was personally involved with each student she was privileged to come in contact with.
In June of 1979, she married J.M. Yater, adding his children and grandchildren to her family. She and J.M. enjoyed many years of travel and wonderful experiences together.
They retired to Lake Buchannan where they relaxed and enjoyed their family visiting them often. She especially loved gardening, painting, and reading. Many happy and special memories were made for everyone who visited. They eventually returned to Stanton fulltime due to health issues. She lost J.M. in 2004.
She enjoyed going to the Martin County Senior Center and volunteering at the Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Stanton at that time.
In 2010, she moved to Bedford to be nearer to her family. She was an active member of the First Baptist church there, and enjoyed visiting with her neighborhood ladies’ group. When her health declined, she began residing in assisted living in Colleyville.
She leaves behind her daughters, Pam Hoppe and husband, Ed of Round Rock, and Patti Quine and husband, Dan of Colleyville; her grandchildren, Russell Briggs of Austin, Ryan Briggs of Stanton, Rebecca Briggs and fiancé Christopher Colamarino of Plano; several nieces, nephews, and many Yater family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her brother; and her sister.
In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that you take a moment to hug your child, grandchild, or loved ones. Walk in the garden for a moment, an hour, or a day. Time waits for no one.
Arrangements are under the direction of Gilbreath Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.