Josephine Yates was born on May 15, 1926, in Nogales, Arizona to Charles and Trinity Carlisle.

Josephine grew up in Oakland, California and graduated from Fremont High School. She was active in the choral program and had an amazing voice. After high school she joined her friends Vivian and Bobbie, who were also excellent singers, and formed a singing trio called the Melodettes. They sang on the radio and even won 1st place on one of their contests. They also performed at different events and venues. One of those performances included singing on a ship in the bay, welcoming soldiers returning from war. One of their events took them to Oak Knoll Hospital in Oakland, performing for wounded soldiers. It was during one of those gigs that one of the patients caught her eye and he also noticed her. His name was Olen Yates and the rest is history. They were blessed with three children and lived in a small home in the Oakland Projects. They moved to Hayward and formed lifelong friendships in the neighborhood. They called themselves "Club Club" and got together often. Josephine also volunteered as a Grey Lady, transporting soldiers to their appointments.

After working at Treasure Island, Olen landed a job in Fresno. Once settled, Josephine decided to get a job. She started out at a cigar shop in downtown Fresno, and then at Old Doc's Liquor Store. Oh the stories she could tell. She started working for Fresno Unified, retiring after 30 years as an Attendance Secretary. Olen passed away in 1979, so after her retirement she became a busy lady.

Some of her endeavors included volunteer work at Channel 18 and AARP. She was also a tour bus guide which took her to many places throughout the States. She was devoted to her family, never missing birthday, anniversary and "good news" celebrations. And of course she loved the casinos.

We want to thank the staff and friends at Windham for providing excellent care and support these past three years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Olen, her sisters Anna Pugatch and Amelia Gilman and her great granddaughter Eleanor Jane.   She is survived by her three children, Gene and his wife Joan, Jolene and her husband Jim, and Susan. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Siuho, Makenna, JT and his wife Rosalind, Cody and his wife Alejandra. She absolutely loved her great-grandchildren, Madelyn, Taylor, Colton and Jay.

She was a sweet, kind and caring woman that was loved by all. She loved the Lord and in her last moments she was at peace.

After the ceremony the family would like you to join them for lunch at the Cox residence, 2082 Sample Ave, Clovis.  We can share a few stories and eat burritos, her favorite dish.