Mother Velora Carolyn (Mitchell) Yates

Velora Carolyn (Mitchell) Yates was born on May 29, 1947, in Paris, Texas. She transitioned to eternity with her Lord and Savior on January 19, 2022, in Richardson, Texas. 

A 1965 graduate of Gibbons High School, Velora attended Paris Junior College. Always a studious learner, Velora graduated with the top 10 of her nursing class in 1975. She went on to enjoy a longtime career as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN). In 2000, after many years of service, she retired from Presbyterian Village North. 

Velora married her high school sweetheart, Vernon L. Jones. In 1977, she united with Elder Benjamin Yates. The two remained united in holy matrimony until his transition. 

Affectionately regarded as "Nannie", "Mother Yates", "Evangelist", "Missionary", and "Church Mother", Velora loved to write, knit, crochet, and color. An avid reader and amazing cook, she was also a fervent prayer warrior and respected Bible scholar.

It was evident that God's hand was on Velora, even at a young age. At  Hospitality Church of God in Christ, over 50 years ago, she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior. Velora remained faithful to God throughout her life. She joined Pentecost Church of God in Christ where she served on the Mother’s Board and as Benevolence Coordinator.  

Velora will be fondly remembered for her caring, generous, encourager, and supportive nature. Her compassionate spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved her. 

She was preceded in death by her father, Jack Mitchell; mother, Roberta Mitchell Hawley; husband, Elder Benjamin Yates; sisters, Paulette Hildreth and Betty Mitchell; brothers - Rufus Mitchell, Jack Mitchell, Jr., and Byron Mitchell; son, Jeffrey Jones; and great-granddaughter, Keiviana Jones. Those left to cherish memories and continue her legacy of love include her daughter, Verna Jones; daughter, Monica Boyd (Bill); stepdaughters, Joyce Brooks and Oquilla Dunigan; stepson, Pastor Carnelius Yates (Brenda); grandchildren - Darius Jones, Eboney Jones, Alex Moore, Tracy Brown, Paula Brown, Terence Brown, Cynthia Brown, Jeffrey Jones II, Robert Jones, JaMarlon Jones, JahNieman Jones, and Janiecia Jones; 25 great-grandchildren; sisters, Sandra Gail Dixon and Margaret Duffie; brothers, Elder Michael Mitchell (Sherry) and Troy Mitchell; special nieces, Miisha Mitchell and Cassandra Mitchell who regarded her as her "Sugar Foot"; a host of other nieces and nephews; father of her daughters, Vernon L. Jones; grandmother of her daughters, Norma Jones; goddaughters - Barbara Thomas, Terri Doggett, Deshunda Criswell, Deborah Flowers, and Lizzie Jackson; and a host of beloved family and friends. 

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