Annie Lee Joseph-Yates

Annie Lee Joseph Yates, age 85, transitioned from this life on Tuesday, April 24th at Westwood Nursing Home in Bridgman, Michigan. The fifth of twelve children, she was born on February 19, 1933 in Many, Louisiana as the first daughter of Maggie B. (Maxie) and Iseah Joseph, Sr.’s union. In 1946, Annie, her parents, and siblings moved to Benton Harbor, Michigan.

From her birth to her death, Annie nourished the people around her with love, faith, compassion, and care. Annie truly lived her life to the fullest through creating memories with family and friends, cooking delectable entrees, entertaining, knitting beautiful blankets for family members and friends, and designing, as well as, modeling the latest fashions. One of her simple pleasures was taking her dog, Tanner, to McDonald’s for a hamburger treat.

Annie worked for Berrien Country Club, Industrial Rubber Goods and then for Whirlpool Corporation for 23 years. She retired from Whirlpool Corporation in 1985.

As a Christ follower, Annie started out as a member of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. W.E. Ellis before moving her membership to Fellowship Mission Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. William Caldwell, of which she was a founding member. Also, a founding member of New Testament of Faith Baptist Church, this was her final church home.

Annie leaves to cherish her memory, one Sister: Elaine Lee (Milwaukee, WI); four Brothers: L.J. Joseph, (Benton Harbor, MI); Charles Joseph (Donna), (Phoenix, AZ); Bill Joseph (Donna), (Grand Rapids, MI); and Lewis Joseph (Mildred), (Benton Harbor, MI); Sister-in-laws: Cynthia Joseph (Houston, TX); Mary Jo Joseph (Benton Harbor, MI); Julia Joseph (Sodus, MI); Godchildren: Sheree Joseph-Bos (Bredon), (Grand Rapids, MI); Jacinda Anderson (Atlanta, GA); Gina Washington (San Diego, CA); Special Cousin: Marjorie Griffin (Detroit, MI); Lifetime Friend: Pat Hiddler (Los Angeles, CA); and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Cassell Yates Sr.; parents: Maggie B. (Maxie) and Iseah Joseph, Sr.; one sister: Mary Lee Bell; and five brothers: L.P. Joseph, Allen Joseph, Iseah Joseph Jr., Shevin Joseph, and Otis Joseph Sr.

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