Yvonne Burns, 81, made her ascent to Heaven in the early morning of Tuesday, January 11, 2022.

Yvonne was the only child of Ben Burns and Bertha Moore Wiley, both of whom preceded her in death.She had two brothers and three sisters, William Moore (deceased), Wallace Wiley (deceased), Bobbie Jean Williams (deceased) Joyce Richardson (deceased) and Jessie Goode.

Born and raised in Malvern, AR., Yvonne accepted Jesus Christ as her lord and savior as a child. She was a proud alumnus of Malvern Colored High School (Class of 58). Yvonne was affectionally known as Tootsie.

Yvonne had an effervescent personality. She was brilliant, beautiful, funny, outspoken, and fearless. Yvonne was born differently-abled but that simply confirmed to all that knew her that she was indeed fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14 KJV).

Yvonne left Arkansas at 18 and only returned to visit. She lived, worked, and thrived in San Francisco, CAas well as in Hampton, VA. Yvonne loved to travel nationally and internationally. She loved to dance, chit, chat, and chew. She had a laugh that was loud and luxurious. Her handwriting was exquisite, her artistic ability sublime and her singing was beautiful. Most of all Yvonne lovedand worshiped Jesus our Lord and Savoir

Until her health failed, Yvonne was an active member of the Malvern Negro Colored High School/Wilson High Alumni Association. Yvonne was an active member of the church wherever she lived. Her last church home was San Francisco Christian Center in where she was an active and valued member until her health failed.

Yvonne was saved and sanctified. She was a wonderful Aunt, friend, confidant, daughter, and sister. She was thoughtful, kind, compassionate, open-minded and welcoming to all regardless of your faith/ or lack of, race or sexual identity. She was well-read, traveled, and versed in politics. Everywhere she went, she created an impression that morphed into lasting and valuable friendships. She loved talking on the phone, wearing high heels, sharpclothes, bright red lipstick and sending greeting cards.

Yvonne lived her life on her own terms. She was unique and exquisite. She was loved, valued and valuable to all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.

She leaves to mourn her passing, her sister Jesse Goode; her 3 nieces, Vickie R. Williams-Cullins (Terry), Rhonda Richardson, Valarie Goode; her 4 nephews, Richard Richardson (Linda), Michael O. Williams (Sherri), Jeffery L. Williams (Jackie) and Kenneth R. Williams; her lifetime best friends Polly Cole-Allen and Sue Bryant; her God Daughter, Vanetta Avery, great nieces and nephews; many friends, former coworkers, and church members.

Funeral Service

Samuel L. Vance & Sons Funeral Directors Memorial Chapel

Saturday, January 29, 2022

11:00 AM 413 West Page Avenue Malvern, ARKANSAS 72104