Ann Josephine Yates

Ann Josephine “Jo Ann” Yates (nee Candela), of O'Fallon, MO, passed away Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the age of 84. Beloved wife of Billy Yates; cherished daughter of the late Amelia and Vincent Candela; devoted mother of Sharon (Jeff Creacy Sr.) Yates, William (Cheryl) Yates, Chuck (Ellen) Yates, and Karon (the late Derek) Goodrich; loving grandmother of 17; treasured great grandmother of 23; and dear sister of Debra Barringer, the late Vincent Candela, and the late Robert Candela.

Jo Ann was married to her beloved husband, Billy, for 65 wonderful years. A proud Catholic, she formed many lifelong friendships through her faith and school years. She adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and had a knack for remembering all of their birthdays. She found joy in playing games with them, making root beer floats, and cooking meals for the whole family. Jo Ann enjoyed playing bingo and had a lifelong love for music—she even played the accordion and recorded a record as a child. Strong, independent, and incredibly smart, Jo Ann was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Memorials may be made in Ann's name to Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital or American Heart Association.