Merlene Mitchem Yates

Merlene Mitchem Yates, 95 of Morganton, NC went home to be with the Lord, Tuesday, March 8, 2022. Born on September 2, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Clemmie and Kimmie Mitchem. Merlene was a member of Morganton Life Church. She was a devoted mother and grandmother. Merlene retired from Drexel Furniture after many years of service. She enjoyed any type of gardening and doing anything outside.

Merlene is survived by her daughter, Judy Y. Pearson and husband, Jim; grandsons, Russell Pearson, Timothy Pearson and wife, Alicia; step-grandsons, Austin Church, Michael Church; 6 great-grandchildren, 1 great great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Merlene was preceded in death by her husband, Sanford A. Yates; brothers, John Mitchem, WG Mitchem; sisters, Ollie Kincaid, Julia Ella Baxter, and Lillie Mitchem.

The family will receive friends from 2pm until 3pm, Sunday, March 13, 2022 at Sossoman Funeral Home. A funeral service will be at 3pm in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home with the Rev. Glenn Ward officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to Morganton Life Church.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.