Yvonne Spivey (Smiley)

Yvonne Spivey (Smiley) was born on November 15, 1942, in her family home in Purcell, Oklahoma, to Martha Coulter. Raised by a remarkable circle of strong women, including her beloved grandmother, Mama Kate, Yvonne grew up surrounded by faith, resilience, and unconditional love. Mama Kate's example instilled in her a lifelong devotion to God and family that became the foundation of her life.

After graduating from high school and spending time traveling, Yvonne married Charles Spivey, and together they built a life in Omaha, Nebraska. They welcomed one daughter, Lisa Spivey, who remained the center of Yvonne's world. Though Yvonne endured the heartbreaking loss of Lisa, her love for her family never wavered. She poured that same unwavering love into her granddaughters and great-grandsons, carrying her daughter's legacy forward through each generation.

Yvonne dedicated her career to caring for children, a calling that reflected her generous spirit and nurturing heart. One of her greatest joys was helping raise her first great-grandson, Naasir, allowing him to spend his early years surrounded by the love and security of family.

An avid reader who loved to travel, Yvonne treasured memories of riding the train with her grandmother as a young girl. She later shared that tradition with her oldest granddaughter, Ashlei, making annual train trips to Colorado to explore new places and create lasting memories together.

Yvonne also enjoyed watching tennis, never missed her favorite soap operas, and cherished every opportunity to spend time with her great-grandsons.

Surrounded by her family, Yvonne was called home on July 19, 2026, at the age of 83.

She is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Lisa Spivey and husband, Charles Spivey.

She is survived by her granddaughters, Ashlei Spivey and Yaasmyn Spivey, both of Omaha, Nebraska; her great-grandsons, Asun and Naasir; and a host of family and friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, strength, and love.

Yvonne's legacy lives on through the faith she embodied, the traditions she passed down, and the generations she nurtured with care. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered

A memorial service will be held on August 15 in Purcell, Oklahoma, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved daughter, Lisa.

The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 18:2