Yvonne Blakely Lunsford

Yvonne Blakely Lunsford, cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on December 20, 2025, at Atrium Health-Main in Charlotte, surrounded by family, friends, tears, and laughter. Born on September 28, 1949, in McDowell County, West Virginia, Yvonne lived a vibrant life filled with love, faith, and joy.

Yvonne joins her parents, David and Rosa Leona Woody Blakely, her stepmother Omie Blakely, her husband of 34 years, Elbert Junior "Gougs" Lunsford, who passed in 2011, and several siblings in eternal rest.

Yvonne worked in textiles for many years however, it was her love for family that truly defined her existence. Yvonne was a proud mother to her beloved daughters, Renee Biggerstaff (Erik) and Lisa Smith (Ken), who were her greatest joys. The legacy of her love continues through her wonderful grandchildren: Alexis Eudy, Aden Smith, Ian Mitchell, Kristian Biggerstaff, Eli Smith, and Tara Mitchell. She often remarked that her daughters and grandchildren were her proudest accomplishments, a sentiment that resonated deeply within her heart.

Yvonne's spirit was nurtured by her belief and devotion to God. She loved Jesus fiercely and studied her Bible faithfully, drawing strength and inspiration from its pages. Attending church was a blessing when she was able to visit.

A woman of many hobbies and interests, Yvonne found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She delighted in playing Scrabble, enjoying times spent with friends and family around the table. The beauty of nature always captivated her, and she cherished swinging on her front porch watching the birds, often proclaiming Clover, SC, as the best place she had ever lived.

Yvonne had a personality and smile that lit up any room she entered. She enjoyed the company of her beloved lap cats, which brought her comfort and companionship. Her laughter, kind soul and positive attitude made an impact on all who met her.

She is survived by her cherished daughters, adored grandchildren, her brother Harvey Blakely (Pat), her sister Judy Morris, many nieces and nephews, and her best friend of almost 50 years, Kay Lance.

Yvonne's visitation will take place on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home, Gastonia, NC. A Celebration of Life will follow on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM, in the Chapel of Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Gaston Memorial Park, Dogwood section with the releasing of the doves and bagpipes renderer at the gravesite. If you are able to attend, per Yvonne’s request, please wear bright colors as this is a celebration of her homecoming.

As we say “see you later” to Yvonne, let us carry forward her loving spirit and her unyielding faith. Her memory will forever remain woven into the fabric of our lives, a beautiful reminder of the love that endures.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com