Kathy Sue (Baldus) Yokley

In loving memory of Kathy Sue Yokley, a loving soul who graced this world with her warmth and kindness. Kathy's journey began on August 17, 1950, in Buckner, Missouri, where she was welcomed into the loving embrace of Noah Thomas Baldus and Katherine Edith (Campbell) Baldus. Her life's narrative painted a portrait of resilience, love, faith, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. 

Kathy's educational path started in Oakland Elementary, continuing to Levasy Elementary, followed by attendance at Fort Osage Junior and Senior High School, where she graduated as a member of the Class of 1968. Her career was multifaceted, taking extreme pride in her educational field employment that saw her wearing multiple hats. From crafting culinary delights as a cook to nurturing young hearts at the Hannon Free Will Baptist Church daycare, Kathy's impact resonated far and wide.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Kathy's heart truly sang when she was surrounded by family. She cherished every moment spent with her husband, Jimmy Coatney, who passed away on December 18, 1981. After Jimmy’s passing, she found renewed companionship with her husband Roy Yokley before his passing on December 29, 2009, creating even more cherished moments. What she enjoyed most, though, were the children and grandchildren she fostered through these relationships, finding immense joy in witnessing their growth and milestones. Working at Liberal Elementary School provided moments of pure happiness as she saw her grandkids thrive in their educational journey.

Kathy's faith and relationship with God was unwavering, embodying a love that transcended words. Her presence at Hannon Freewill Baptist Church volunteering for Vacation Bible School (VBS) and Cubbies, as well as assisting at the Helping Hands Donation store in Liberal, illuminated the lives of those around her. 

In her leisure hours, Kathy found solace in the crafting arts and the intricate challenges offered by jigsaw puzzles. These hobbies not only brought her joy but also served as avenues for creative expression and mental acuity.

On August 3, 2024, in Kansas City, Kansas, Kathy bid farewell to this world to reunite with her loved ones who had gone before her - Jimmy Coatney (husband), Roy Yokley (husband), Noah Thomas Baldus (father), Katherine Edith Baldus (mother), and Farol Baldus (brother).

As we mourn Kathy's physical absence, we find solace in the memories she engraved in our hearts. She is survived by her children, Theresa Dalby (Jim), Perry Yokley, Kyle Coatney (Liz), Eric Coatney (Darth), Krystal Williams (Mathew), Doug Yokley (Sarah), as well as her grandchildren, Jake Dalby, Jayden Dalby, Lauren Dalby, Evan Yokley, Samantha Yokley, Mila Coatney, Weston Coatney, Chase Coatney, Hunter Coatney, Kairyn Williams, Karson Williams, Addelyn Yokley, Isabella Yokley, Emma Yokley, and Abigail Yokley, along with her brother, Wayne Baldus and a community touched by her grace.

A Family Memorial Gathering will take place on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Hannon Freewill Baptist Church in Liberal, Missouri. Services commemorating Kathy Sue Yokley will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024, at Speaks Buckner Chapel in Buckner, Missouri; a visitation from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM followed by a funeral service from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The interment will take place at Buckner Hill Cemetery following the service.

In honoring Kathy's legacy, let us carry forward her legacy of faith, love and compassion towards all those we encounter on life's winding path. May Kathy rest in eternal peace knowing her light continues to shine bright in our hearts forevermore. 

 In lieu of flowers, if you’re inclined, memorial donations can be made to either:

Hannon Free Will Baptist Church: 1051 West V Highway, Liberal, MO 64762

McKill Chapel Cemetery: 1291 205th Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701