Aubrey Yawn, 76, Retired Cherokee High School Teacher "Loved Helping Young People"

Photo credit: Patch file

The following obituary was submitted by Darby Funeral Home:

Aubrey Dewitt Yawn, 76 of Canton, passed away on Oct. 11 at Northside Hospital-Cherokee. Mr. Yawn is survived by his wife of fifty-one years Nadine Yawn of Canton; also by son and daughter-in-law, Farris and Stacy Yawn of Canton, along with two sister-in-laws, Virginia Gillis and Martha Scales.

Yawn was born in Milan, Georgia, and his family soon moved to Chauncey, Georgia, where he lived till he was 10. He also lived in New Orleans, Douglas, Atlanta and Eastman, Georgia. It was in Eastman that he met the love of his life, Nadine Allen. The family moved to Canton in 1978 when he took a job as a teacher at Cherokee High School, where he worked until his retirement in 1993.

Aubrey trained as a young man to be a photographer, but made his mark as a talented master mechanic. He found his true passion, however, as a teacher. He truly loved helping young people reach their potential, especially when he could help at-risk kids turn their lives around. There are many men and women that have told him that they gave him credit for getting them on the right track and in large degree for their success.

He had a huge heart and would go out of his way to help anyone in need. He was always generous with his time and talents, and asked for nothing in return except that you do the same for others. Most importantly, he loved his family with all his heart, and they loved him back just as much. He will be missed.

He was also well known as a talented cook who was always looking to add his special touch to a new dish. He also naturally loved to sample new recipes and really loved finding new ways to prepare his favorites. He always enjoyed working on his technique and his grilling equipment.

The Yawn family accepted friends at Darby Funeral Home on Sunday, Oct. 12 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Monday, Oct. 13 at noon in the chapel of Darby Funeral Home. Dr. C.R. Hill and the Rev. Jim McRae will be officiating the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to The Ed Tower Family Fund at Canton First United Methodist Church where Yawn was a member or to your favorite charity.