Mary Yvonne Skillern Burnett, 88, West Memphis, Arkansas, passed away September 9, 2021. Yvonne was born March 2, 1933 in Hazen, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Etha Haygood; her husbands, Billy Skillern and Junior Burnett and brothers, J.R. (Ada) Haygood and Franklin (Carrie) Haygood.
Yvonne is survived by her sons, Gary Skillern and wife, Patty, Kenneth Skillern and wife, Brenda, and Billy Skillern; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Yvonne was an extremely gifted musician. She touched so many lives with her singing, piano playing and teaching. She was the pianist at every church the family attended. Yvonne was a kind and compassionate soul, with tremendous love for God, family, and friends.
A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church in West Memphis, Arkansas at 6:00 P.M., on September 14, 2021. Funeral services will be held at Calvary Baptist Church in Hazen, Arkansas on September 15, 2021 with visitation at 1:00 p.m., and funeral following at 2:00 P.M.. Interment will be in the Center Point Cemetery.
So sorry to hear of Ms Yvonne passing. Thought so much of her she taught my daughter piano lessons. She is now playing and singing for the Lord. I went to Trinity back in the day with her and Billy have known Yvonne for quite awhile she was a sweet and wonderful woman.
As a very talented pianist, Ms Yvonne seemed to blend her extraordinary
musical ability perfectly with solos, groups, choirs and congregational singing. It was as if she became one with them, instantly matching keyboard pitch, volume, and time to the voices of those who joyfully sang to her accompaniment. It was always a blessing to hear her “musical messages in song.” She will be missed, but her precious legacy continues.
Our prayers continue for her family.
To Gary, Kenneth and Billy – I have only fond memories of your mom. What a very special lady! She always had the sweetest smile and was gracious and kind to everyone. Our family still marvels at her talent, which was shared so easily and blessed so many. It has been many years since I saw her but her name recalls happy times as our families worshipped and visited together. From impromptu ice cream socials at our homes on Sunday evenings to her and your Dad playing and singing at my wedding 41 years ago.
I know I speak for the entire Griggs family as I extend our sincere condolences.