Vannette Yewell, lovingly known as Van, passed away on June 9, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. She was born on July 3, 1958, in Washington, Indiana, and lived a life marked by kindness, creativity, and devotion to the people she loved.
Van was a loving, creative, and handy woman whose presence brought warmth and steadiness to her family and friends. She was known for her strong work ethic and her ability to make a house feel like home. As a self-employed painter and wallpaper hanger, she took pride in her work and was respected for the care and skill she brought to every project. Her talents reflected the same thoughtful attention she gave to all areas of her life.
She was a member of Houser Grove Church of Christ, where her faith and fellowship were an important part of her life. Van valued the simple joys of each day and found happiness in the outdoors. She enjoyed boating, crafting, and hiking, and she especially appreciated time spent in nature. Whether she was working with her hands or enjoying a peaceful moment outside, she embraced life with a spirit of gratitude and creativity.
Van is survived by her two sons, Walker (Mallorie Lewis) Yewell, of Gilbertsville, Kentucky, and Wesley Yewell and his wife, Sonia, of Metropolis, Illinois; her mother, Peggy Vance Nolcox of Paducah, Kentucky. She also leaves behind four beloved grandchildren, Sophia Yewell, Maverick Yewell, Kyler Lewis, and Kynzlie Lewis, who brought great joy to her life. She is also survived by her brothers, Tony Nolcox and his wife, Karen, of Murray, Kentucky, and Tim Vance and his wife, Candy, of Florida. Several nieces and nephews that she loved dearly.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Alan Wayne Yewell, and her father, Rudy Nolcox. Their memory remained a meaningful part of her life, and she carried their influence with her throughout the years.
Van will be remembered for her loving heart, her creative spirit, and the many ways she used her hands and her talents to care for others. Her family and friends will cherish the memories of her laughter, her strength, and the quiet ways she showed her love. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, and in the family she helped shape with devotion and grace.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 15, 2026, at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home with Mr. Justin Hastie officiating. Burial will follow at the Houser Grove Church of Christ Cemetery.
Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Lourdes Hospice, 1530 Lone Oak Road, Paducah, KY 42003.
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