Yvonne Charles

Yvonne Charles, 85, of Sherwood, Arkansas, gained her heavenly wings on October 26, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved her fiercely and friends whose lives were brighter for having known her.

Born in 1941 in Wellingborough, England, to Sydney and Masie Lainchbury, Yvonne carried her English roots with pride throughout her life. Her beautiful English accent never faded, and she was affectionately known by many as the “English Lady.”

Yvonne was a woman of unmistakable elegance and style. Always impeccably dressed, complete with matching shoes and handbag, she believed in presenting herself with grace and dignity. She would often say she dressed as though she might meet the Queen at any moment. And with her confidence, charm, and commanding presence, she was certainly a woman who could hold a room simply by walking into it.

Beneath that polished exterior was a woman with a wonderful sense of humor, a joyful spirit, and a gift for making people laugh at the drop of a hat. Yvonne never met a stranger, and it didn’t take long for anyone in her company to feel like an old friend. She loved to sing and dance and wanted everyone to join in. Her laughter, music, and larger-than-life personality brought people together and turned ordinary moments into treasured memories.

Yvonne was known for her sassiness, her quick wit, and her wonderfully spirited personality. She had a way of speaking her mind, making people laugh, and keeping everyone on their toes. She was confident, outspoken, and never afraid to let a little of her personality shine. That special spark was part of what made her so unforgettable.

As Alzheimer’s disease began to affect her memory, Yvonne developed a sweet and endearing habit of calling people “Ducky” when she couldn’t quite recall their names. Before long, the nickname caught on, and family and friends began calling her Ducky, too. What began as a small part of a difficult chapter in her life became a tender reminder of the love, humor, and connection that remained even when names and memories became harder to hold on to. In true Yvonne fashion, she gave the people who loved her one more special memory to cherish — and a nickname that will forever bring a smile to their faces.

Above all else, Yvonne loved her family fiercely. She devoted herself to raising her three children as a stay-at-home mother, giving them her love, care, and the foundation of a family that meant everything to her. She was immensely proud of her grandchildren and their accomplishments, celebrating their successes with the joy and enthusiasm of a devoted grandmother.

Later in life, Yvonne began a new chapter as a phlebotomist at Baptist Hospital, a job she truly loved. Her caring nature and ability to connect with people made this work especially meaningful to her. She embraced this chapter of her life with the same spirit and warmth that had always made her so special.

Yvonne is survived by her daughters, Jane Koba and Penny Ussery, and her sons-in-law, Namir Koba and Robert Ussery. She leaves behind her beloved granddaughters, Lauren Ussery, Veronica Ussery, and Tiffany (Dakota) Raines; her grandsons, Christopher Charles, Nicholas (Kait) Koba, and Nathan Koba; and her great-grandchildren, Alyssa Charles, Emma Koba, and Myleigh, Sebastian, Brody Koba. Her family was a tremendous source of pride and joy, and the love she shared with them will remain a lasting part of her legacy.

Yvonne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harold Charles; her son, Wayne Charles; her parents, Sydney and Masie Lainchbury; her grandson, Brenden Charles; her brothers, Joe (Joan) Lainchbury, John (Daphne) Lainchbury, and David Lainchbury; and her sister, Elizabeth Pettit.

Yvonne leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, elegance, and unforgettable memories. She will be remembered for her impeccable style, her unmistakable English accent, her quick wit, her love of music and dancing, and the way she made people feel welcome wherever she went.

She was truly one of a kind — a beautiful soul with a touch of English elegance, a heart full of love, and a spirit that could light up any room. Though her family and friends will miss her dearly, the joy she brought into their lives will live on in the stories they share, the laughter they remember, and the love she leaves behind.

Yvonne may have taken her heavenly wings, but her spirit will forever dance in the hearts of those who loved her.