Alta Pope

Aunt Vonnie as she was known to her niece, Diane Yoder Bubier, Steve Yoder and Brian Yoder was born July 9, 1938 to Robbie Pope and Fannie M L Parker. She was predeceased by both parents and both sisters, Betty Luby and Ola Fay Yoder.

Vonnie’s father was a janitor and passed away suddenly of a heart attack in 1964. This would have been sad but not tragic except that Vonnie was born mentally disabled. This left Fannie who was a dietitian at the hospital as the sole provider. She had to find a care provider for her. These were days when adult care was not easily monitored. Vonnie was in a few different home cares where she lived except when her mom could have her home on some days off. It was tough years for Vonnie as Fannie would find out about some type of abuse as diets were imposed, drugs given, punishments inflicted. She changed homes a few time’s desperately seeking a loving environment. Finally Fannie was able to retire and bring her home but there were physical and emotional challenges after her ordeals. Fannie moved back to Texas where she had relatives (she had been adopted as a child possibly by relatives).

She and Vonnie lived in Round Rock but as Fannie was getting older she sought one more time for a loving care facility. This time success was hers as she found Colonial Manor in New Braunfels, Texas. There she was known officially as Miss Pope or staff knew her as Miss Yvonne. She had fellow residents with similar challenges, daily activities, good meals and caring staff. It was about 45 minutes away but Fannie could visit as often as she was able. Several years into Texas residency Fannie developed Alzheimer’s and herself went into a wonderful nursing home in Round Rock. A few years later Fannie passed away. Meanwhile Vonnie continued to thrive at Colonial Manor. Some years ago a wonderful temporary staff member got to know Miss Yvonne, Amy Evans. Amy introduced Miss Yvonne to her family, checked her out on weekends, baking, and sharing holiday activities and events. Vonnie became her honorary grandma. Miss Yvonne shared a photo from her wallet which enabled her through FB messenger to contact Vonnie’s niece. Experiences and photos were exchanged and there was even a Facetime meet when Vonnie was with Amy. The California family is very grateful to Amy and her family for being FAMILY to Aunt Vonnie. When it became apparent that Vonnie was soon to be called home to her heavenly father Amy agreed to be the person of contact for any final decisions . She was with Vonnie on her last night assuring her that Jesus would be welcoming her in and she’d see her mom and others soon. Early the morning of 11/10/23 Vonnie went peacefully home.