Edna Yoakum, 88, of rural Knoxville passed away peacefully Jan. 7, 2021.

She was born Aug. 13, 1932, in Fairdealing to Arthur Lee and Ruth Esther Ward. She was preceded in death by her husband and best friend of nearly 50 years, Tommy Yoakum, who died in 2002.

Mom lived independently on the farm that made her and Dad so happy for 30-plus years, making friends and bringing joy to many people. She loved quilting and was prepared to “take a stitch” and make many more based on the number of pieces available. Every quilt was handmade. Most were given as gifts.

She also was an avid reader and a prolific letter writer.

Edna leaves behind a much-loved sister, Mary Channel (Ward) of Rossville, Kansas; and three children, David Yoakum of Shawnee, Kansas, Linda Meinig of Paola, Kansas, and Bill Yoakum of Gold Canyon, Arizona. Many grandchildren and great-grandchildren also survive.

At her request, there will be no service or other arrangements. For those of you who knew Mom, rejoice in knowing she lived her life fully and left our world on her terms. She prayed often, loved many and always did what she thought was best for others. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Family Funeral Home in Polo; phone, (660) 354- 2214. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com.