Geral Dean Coley Yow

Gearl Dean (Geri) Coley Yow passed away on August 11, 2026. She was born in Lee County, NC to Clyde Adam Coley and Naomi Cole Coley, both deceased. She is survived by her sister Lucille Hall of Carthage, NC. Geri and Lucille were part of a large, loving family of 9 siblings. Also surviving her are three children: Reverend William Joseph Yow and his wife Julie of Flat Rock, NC, Michael Jay Yow and partner Kimber Herring of Wilmington, NC and Angela Yow Robinson and her husband Mike also of Wilmington, NC.

Geri is predeceased by her husband William Joseph (Billy) Yow.

Geri has six grandchildren: Jenna Yow, Michael Yow, Lindsey Yow Rosenbaum, Zachary Houston, Kent Robinson and Patrick Robinson (who preceded her in death).

Geri also has six great grandchildren: Blake Rosenbaum, Jr., Coley Houston, Jones Houston, Cal Robinson, Josie Yow and Ruby Yow.

Geri was a woman of strong faith, and saw every day as a reason to be grateful. After a long career in the Lee County, NC school system, she retired to enjoy her many passions. She loved gardening, being with family and friends and taking care of her many animals over the years. She cherished being a wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Geri was a generous, caring woman and she will be missed by all those whose lives she touched.

After living independently for many years after the death of her beloved husband Billy, Geri was blessed to reside at the Davis Community in Wilmington, NC during her final months. While there, she made many new friends and enjoyed games, conversation and wonderful care. She also enjoyed numerous visits from her sister Lucille and her niece Jana. A special thank you from the family to the staff at Davis, as well as her friend who became a caregiver and honorary member of the family – Ruth Finch.

A private burial will take place at Center United Methodist Church in Sanford, NC at 11:30am on August 22, 2026 where Geri and Billy were active members for decades.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or Dementia Society of America.