Mary Elizabeth "Liz" Yates, age 98 of Elwood, passed away on Saturday, July 21, 2018 at her daughter's home following an extended illness, but a long well-lived life.  She was born December 23, 1919 in Talbot (Jefferson Co.), Tennessee, the daughter of Hugh and Grace (Phagan) Horner.  Liz worked in production at Delco Remy Corporation in Anderson for 27 years and retired in 1982.  She was a 1937 graduate of Frankton High School, and was active as a cheerleader during high school.  Liz married Floyd R. "Red" Yates on September 21, 1940, and they shared over 38 years of marriage together, until his passing on May 26, 1979.  She was a devoted member of Grace United Methodist Church in Elwood where she was active in the United Methodist Women (locally and in the Indiana District); was the oldest living member of the church; and was formerly a longtime adult Sunday school teacher.  Liz was also a member of the U.A.W. # 662 and formerly a member of the Order of the Eastern Star in Elwood.  She enjoyed reading (especially her bible), traveling, and was absolutely devoted to all of her family.  She will be remembered for never hesitating to share her faith in God with others, and she will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Liz's family legacy includes son, Tom (wife Barbara) Yates of Elwood; daughter, Doneta Connor of Elwood; brother, Jesse (wife June) Horner of Kokomo; 3 grandchildren, Tamara (husband John) Gardner, Rachel (husband Brad) Mathys, and Jeremy (wife Amy) Yates; 11 great-grandchildren, Tara (husband Eli) VanHooser, Tristin Yates, Collin Yates, Ava Yates, Grace Arbuckle, Rose Arbuckle, Stefanie (Chandler) Shank, Ben Smith, Sarah Farman, Jessica Farman, and Zara Sanders; 3 great-great grandchildren, Jordynn, Jailynn, River and 2 more expected in 2018; and several nieces and nephews.  Liz was preceded in death by her parents; 2 brothers, Earl (and wife Mary) Horner, and Leon (and wife Carol) Horner; and beloved grandson, Greg Arbuckle.

A funeral service celebrating Liz's life will be conducted at 2:00 pm on Saturday, July 28, 2018 at Grace United Methodist Church, 1503 S. D Street, Elwood with Pastor Bill Johnston officiating.  Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park in Elwood.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 pm to 2 pm on Saturday, July 28, 2018 prior to the funeral at Grace United Methodist Church.   Memorial contributions are suggested to the Grace United Methodist Church or the Samaritan's Purse Project through the funeral home.  Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home has been entrusted to handle Liz's funeral arrangements, and online expressions of condolence may be made at copherfeslermay.com.