Letresa "Yvonne" Neal Whitsel, age 66, of Lavonia, passed away at her home on Friday, November 15, 2024.

Born on June 25, 1958, in Stephens County, Yvonne was the daughter of Smitty and Janelle Crowe Ellis and the granddaughter of the late Fred and Ruth Neal of Toccoa. After graduating from Franklin County High School, she went to work in the food service industry and dedicated over twenty years of service as a waitress at Dad's Restaurant. Yvonne was known for her warm smile and kind service, touching the lives of many patrons and colleagues alike. Yvonne had a deep love for animals, especially her two beloved dogs, Rocky and Dolly. She was a treasured member of the Lavonia community for sixty-six years.

She is survived by her daughters, Crystal (Chris) Slusher and Jodi (Chris) Page. Her grandchildren, Christy Jo (Timothy) Nation, Emily Page, Hunter Page, Danny Slusher, and David Slusher, along with her great-granddaughter, Emory Nation, will forever hold her memory dear. Yvonne is also survived by her sister, Elaine Roach, and her niece, Casey Roach.

A funeral service to honor Yvonne's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024, at The Creek Church in Canon. The service will be officiated by Rev. Chris Page and Hunter Page. Following the service, Yvonne will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers: Smitty Ellis, James Kelly, Timothy Nation, Kamden Osborne, Hunter Page, Chris Slusher, and Clint Tucker. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Flowers are welcome, or donations can be made in Yvonne's memory to The Creek Church, 3287 Highway 17, Canon, GA 30520.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.