Iva Arlene Yilit

Iva Arlene Yilit, 87, of Avella, passed away on Easter Sunday, April 9, 2023, in Washington Hospital, following a brief illness. She was born on June 16, 1935, in Finleyville, a daughter of the late George and Odessa Wessel Adams, the third oldest of five sisters, and six brothers. For many years, Iva worked as a homemaker, and a “wonder mother,” who always had a warm meal on the table, and a warm smile to match. Later in life, she worked at Kmart and Washington Hospital. Iva enjoyed her flowers and hanging baskets, and she loved to cook and bake. She seemed happiest when she was teaching her daughters and granddaughters, Katrina, Tiffiny and Chrissy, how to cook. Iva will always be remembered for her kind compassionate nature, and for being such a wonderful mother and grammy. She will be missed by all who knew her, but especially her beloved family. On April 6, 1955, she married the love of her life, George Yilit, who died on October 22, 2021. Surviving are three daughters, Pamela (Jake) Holman, of Sewickley, Kimberly (Mark) Mace, of Avella, and Georgann (Roy) Miller, of Avella; six grandchildren, Blake (Tasha) Brandenburg, of Sewickley, Joshua (Christine) Mace, of Avella, Tiffiny (Sean) Mahland, of Avella, Katrina (Codie) Noga, of Avella, Brandon (Lyndy) Miller, of Burgettstown, and Trenton Miller, of Avella; seven great grandchildren, whom she adored, Blain and Dusty Mace, Colten, Dakota and Ty Mahland, Bryson Brandenburg, and her little Gracie Noga; one sister, Clara Ankrom; a sister-in-law, Anna Seng; several nieces and nephews, including a special niece, DeeDee Seng, who visited her every Sunday; and a special friend, Diana Hlad, who loved her company and going shopping with her, and her sidekick Blain. Preceding her in death are four sisters, Alice Campbell, Elva Rome, Shirley Snow, and Joyce Pigford; and six brothers, Harry, Bill, Eugene, Raymond, George, and Kenny Adams. Friends and family will be received on Saturday, April 15, 2023, from 10 a.m. till 12 p.m., the time of service, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Ave., Washington, with Pastor Brian Knight officiating. Burial will follow in Upper Buffalo Cemetery.