Elyse Aders Yarbrough, age 83 passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, after a battle with breast cancer. Elyse was born in Phenix City, Alabama and adopted by her parents, the late Macon Hawthorne Jack Aders and Mary Ruth Tyson Aders. She lived her young life in Birmingham, Alabama. After marrying James Garl Yarbrough they moved to Lithia Springs, Georgia. Wedowee, Alabama was where they relocated for retirement
Elyse was a devoted mother and grandmother, her three children, Penny Yarbrough Garner, Joel Mark Yarbrough (Lifeng), and Dixie Yarbrough Jenkins (Jim), along with her five beloved grandchildren, Austin Guy Garner, Caitlin Garner Hobbs (Kane) , Emily Jenkins, Davis Jenkins, and William Yarbrough. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Garl Yarbrough, son, Joel Mark Yarbrough and son-in-law Guy Bruce Garner.
As a career woman, Elyse was known for her dedication and work ethic. She began her career as a store clerk before spending 20 plus years as a supervisor at Gilman Wallcovering. Later, she and her husband ran the operations of Morning Sun Plant Nursery in Wedowee, Alabama, a venture that became a labor of love for the couple.
Elyse’s personality was as vibrant as her many passions. She was fiercely independent, with an unwavering sense of self and a fiery spirit that endeared her to all who knew her. Her interests were wide-ranging—whether she was enjoying a NASCAR race, tending to her beloved animals, Alabama Football or spending time with her family, Elyse lived life on her own terms. Her faith in God was central to her life, and her heart was always open to those in need.
Elyse is remembered for her love of family, her strong-willed nature, and her unwavering commitment to her beliefs. Her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.
A celebration of Elyse’s life will be held at Benefield Funeral home, Ashland, Alabama on Sunday March 23,2025 visitation at 1pm CST and services at 2pm CST.
