There will never be another Mildred Yates!! She was the BEST teacher but so much more to those blessed to have had her in our lives. How she could "know" so many of us & make us feel so special I will never understand but always be grateful. She was gifted that way. So beautiful, so talented, so brilliant, perceptive, loving, & wise. I miss her everyday.
Saturday, November 29, 2014

I had the privilege to have Mrs. Yates both for 5th grade at Eugene Field and then 4 years later for 9th grade English and History at French High School, where my own dad taught Math for many years. She was both an effective teacher and a caring adult for so many kids. And she was the same for elementary school kids as she was for young teenagers. After moving to Houston in 1971 to finish high school, I returned back to Beaumont for a visit three years later as I was preparing to graduate. I made a point of dropping by to visit my favorite teacher, Mrs. Yates. A special visit and the last time I saw her. Sorry to be so late after her passing, but I had to include my tribute to a wonderful lady.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Mrs. Yates was the best teacher I've ever had, at any level. She had a huge impact on my life. I am the person I am today because I had her as an English teacher---and a friend---at French High School. She taught how to think, how to learn and how to live with joie de vivre and verve. She was one-of-a-kind and though I'm sad to learn of her passing, I can't think of her without smiling.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010

I am sorry for your loss of such a compassionate soul. I knew Mrs.Yates from my time working at Schlesinger's where she was always supporting our efforts to improve residents quality of life. During that time, she told me many stories of our two families long friendship between Mr. Yates and my grandfather Moodye. Mrs. Yates was a true blessing to those in need and a friend to anyone she met. I am sure she is so happy to be with her beloved Reed. Many blessings to your family.
Thursday, January 14, 2010

Mary and Family,

Your mom was the most memorable and favorite teacher I ever had. What a beautiful sight she was at Eugene Field ... so beautifully coiffed, clothed, and shod ... so beautifully articulate and inspirational to her doe-eyed adorers ... we listened and learned from her, and wanted to be like her.

She was the first teacher that made me feel like she took a personal interest in me and my well-being, and at every chance she encouraged us to be our best. I'm sure many others in the same class would say the same thing. It was that wonderful combination of things about her personality and her ability to relate to children to help us understand the complexities of life and language that made lasting impressions on her former students.

God bless and keep her, and you and your family, as well, during this difficult time. Be comforted by the prayers, loving thoughts and memories that are coming your way.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010