Carolyn Frances (Wilchek) Yates, 83, died peacefully on Thursday, December 14, 2017. Carolyn was a native of Richmond, Virginia and a 1952 graduate of John Marshall High School. She was preceded in death by her parents, William Frank Wilchek and Frances Elizabeth Powell, her brother and sister, Corky and Mary Ann, and her loving husband of 53 years Thomas Richard Yates.
Tom and Carolyn married in 1956 and eventually built their home and raised their family in the beautiful, natural surroundings of Varina. For 50 years, Carolyn enjoyed the tranquility of her home and often wrote about how she felt moved by the awesomeness of the nature around her and the presence of God that she felt every day in that setting. Ever the Southern hostess, Carolyn always kept a pie or a pound cake on hand "in case somebody dropped by" so that she'd have something to serve, and indeed people did drop by because her wonderful neighbors and friends adored her as much as her family did.
Carolyn was a woman of many accomplishments, which included being a perfect and loving wife and homemaker and a magnificent and steadfast mother and grandmother. Outside the home, Carolyn was a faithful servant of God through St. Paul's Episcopal Church, where she served on the Altar Guild for many years. After her children started middle school, Carolyn resumed working full-time outside the home, for St. Paul's Church, the Metropolitan Economic Development Council, and finally for the Metro Richmond Chamber of Commerce. Through her work, she became a member of Executive Women International and served as 1994 President of the Richmond Chapter. At the office, Carolyn was the kind of person who held everything together and had all the answers – always helping anyone with a smile. She made many dear friends over the years through her work and church life.
Carolyn was an angel on earth and all who knew her loved her for her innocent, gentle and sweet nature and her unlimited thoughtfulness for others. She is survived by three children who adored her: Richard Farley Yates (Rose) of Richmond, Peter Sheppard Yates (Laurie) of Harrisonburg, and Susan Frances Yates of Richmond. She is also survived by her grandchildren Samantha Caroline, Sham, Cullen and Brianne.
A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at 2:00pm at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 815 E. Grace Street, Richmond, VA 23219 with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church to benefit the Altar Guild.
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3 Entries
December 26, 2017
Lanette Thompson
Richard, I just heard about this, I am so sorry. My prayers are with you, Susan and Peter, during this time. It is a tough tine of year and I can really relate to the pain that you are feeling. I remember BOTH of your parents as being so kind and generous. My heart and thoughts are with your family.
Lanette
December 19, 2017
Mrs. Yates, Carolyn, was one of the sweetest people I've known. When I would come to visit Susan in Richmond, Carolyn and Tom were so welcoming to me. They made me feel like a 2nd daughter while I was there. Carolyn was always polite and proper, but it was more than just Southern hospitality -- she was so warm and genuine and always so generous.
I have to say one of her greatest accolades is how well she raised her family. Carolyn was so (rightfully) proud of all Susan's adventures, her successful career and of course of her granddaughter Samantha. Susan was lucky to have her as her mother, and accordingly, Carolyn was fortunate to have such a loving, dedicated daughter.
December 18, 2017
Paul & Mary Anne Ellsworth
Carolyn was a true southern lady. When we moved to Richmond she took Paul and I under her care and guidance. She was always there with words of encouragement. She will be greatly missed by our family. We were hoping to come for memorial, but could not get away. Our son Jarrett will be there in our stead. Please know we are praying for comfort and peace for the family. Our love goes out to all.
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