Dorothy Rosena Yearby was born on February 26, 1926, in Columbia, South Carolina. She transitioned to glory on April 24, 2026, at 100 years old.

Dorothy was raised by her grandparents on the family farm in Irmo, South Carolina. The home was full of people and a lot of love. Many valuable life lessons were taught at the dinner table.

She attended the Harbison Schools, in Irmo, SC and after graduation, Dorothy attended Allen University, in Columbia SC and earned a degree in elementary education

Dorothy met and married the late John H. Yearby, on December 21, 1952. From their union they had five children.

Dorothy was a dedicated first-grade teacher for many years. She touched the lives of countless children and parents. Many of them remembered her when she retired and frequently stopped to talk anytime they saw her.

Mrs. Yearby was an active member of Grace Union AME Zion Church where she served in several leadership positions.

Throughout her life’s journey, God sustained Dorothy’s unwavering faith in Him. “Blessed Assurance” and “If It Had Not Been for the Lord on My Side” were her favorite songs. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 23.

Mrs. Yearby was predeceased by her grandparents, her parents, all her siblings and her husband. She was also predeceased by her son, John W. Yearby, her grandson, Christopher Moyer and granddaughter, Carleen Bohning.

She leaves to celebrate her life, daughters Carolyn (Ronnie) Woods and Yolande Taylor; sons Patrick Yearby and Richard Yearby; daughter-in-law Kristen Yearby; her grandchildren: Sharonda, Haley, Jennifer, Richard, Jr and Aleshia; 14 great grandchildren; 7 great great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; her teacher-friends (who always kept in touch), and her beloved community of faith.

All are invited to call Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11:30am-12:30pm at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Road, Rome, NY.  Funeral services will be held at 12:30pm at the funeral home.  She will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery in Lee.