September 13, 2025, 94, Goldsboro —-
Ruth Gertrude Feierabend Yelverton was born on September 30, 1930 in Breslau, Germany. She passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Willow Creek Nursing Facility in Goldsboro, North Carolina.
Ruth was the daughter of the late Gertrude Kruger Feierabend and Willi Feierabend of Germany. She lived an extraordinary life, beginning with her teenage years in wartime Germany and her immigration to the United States in 1963. In 1990, she planted roots in Stantonsburg, North Carolina, which she proudly called home for the rest of her days.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John E. Yelverton, and her daughter, GiGi Belew. She is survived by her step-daughters, Pam Yelverton-Bussert, Paula Yelverton, and Carla Murray; eleven grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her brother-in-law, Richard Yelverton, and his wife, Bobbie, as well as a large extended family of nieces, nephews and other in-laws who will cherish her memory.
Those who knew Ruth will remember her for her love of animals, her strong faith at Watery Branch Free Will Baptist Church, and above all—her personality. She had a caring heart, but she was never afraid to say what she thought, add a little spice to the conversation, or make you laugh when you least expected it.
She leaves behind not only her family but also a legacy of stories and lessons. Her life was a testament to strength, perseverance, individuality, and love. She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished.
A graveside service will be held Monday, September 29, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Stantonsburg Cemetery. Visitation will follow the service at the cemetery.
Services entrusted to the care of Shackleford-Howell Funeral Home, 102 N. Pine Street in Fremont.
