Obituary of Barbara A. Yates

Mrs. Barbara Ann Yates died peacefully at Oakland Care Center on Tuesday, February 14, 2017 in Oakland, New Jersey at the age of 81. She was the daughter of the late Ruth Lillian (Insley) and George Samuel Lutz. Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Jason Everett Yates. Their children Jason B. Yates, Christina Yates-Takacs, daughter-in-law Diane Yates, grandchildren Jason Yates, Cassidy Takacs and Kayla Takacs, great-grandson Trevor Yates, family and friends will hold Barbara's spirit in their hearts forever. Barbara was born on March 19, 1935 in Easton, Pennsylvania to Ruth and George Lutz. She married Jason Everett Yates, her high school sweetheart on June 22, 1954. She graduated from Kutztown University in 1956 with a degree in Art Education. Barbara was an accomplished Art Teacher in the Easton, PA and Phillipsburg, NJ public schools. She also taught at the Easton Head Start Program in Easton, PA. After moving to Oakland, New Jersey during 1971, she dedicated her life to raising her two children Jason and Christina. She was also an enthusiastic Sunday School Teacher at the Ponds Reformed Church and an active member of the Juvenile Conference Committee. Her children remember her as a kind, patient and driven mother who encouraged them to pursue their goals. In addition, Barbara Ann Yates was a skilled quilter, avid shopper, and talented cook. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew her. A viewing and service is scheduled for Friday, February 17, 2017 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Oakland Memorial Home, 330 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ. Reverend Nathan Busker will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Barbara's life. The family would like to thank caregivers and staff at the Oakland Care Center for their care and dedication to Barbara Yates.