Margery Bays Yeager

Margery Pearl Bays Yeager, beloved educator, devoted mother, and cherished friend, went to be with the Lord on October 5, 2024, at the age of 98. The celebration of Margery's remarkable life will take place on October 8, 2024, at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Cleveland, Mississippi. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM. A graveside service will follow at New Cleveland Cemetery at 12:00 PM. 

Margery was born on February 4, 1926, to Lewis and Maude Bays. Margery was a light in the lives of many, known for her unwavering faith, commitment to education, and strong values. She married her high school sweetheart, Robert Lee Yeager June 4, 1949, in Skene, MS and was married for 65 years. 

A valedictorian from Skene Consolidated School, Margery laid the groundwork for her future academic pursuits by earning a scholarship to Delta State Teachers College, achieving her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in just three years, graduating in 1947. Her thirst for knowledge and teaching never diminished, and she touched the lives of many students with her kindness and nurturing spirit. Margery's remarkable career began as a first-grade teacher in Leland, Mississippi. She later inspired countless young minds at Starkville Elementary, became the Director of Immanuel Baptist Church Kindergarten, and contributed her talents at the Demonstration School at Delta State. A proud member of the Cleveland School District, she retired in 1962, yet her dedication to education never wavered. She was the bookkeeper for the family farm, Yeager Farms until 2012. Margery was also the Treasurer of the Madame Hodnet Chapter of DAR from the 1970s through 2012, a testament to her lifelong commitment to service and community engagement. 

Margery was not only an educator but also a devoted Christian, having accepted Jesus Christ at the tender age of 11. She cherished her membership at Skene Baptist Church, founded by her grandfather, Joseph Jackson Turner, who unfortunately passed away before she was born. His wife, Grandmama May Louisa Woodruff, lived with Margery and her mother and had a great influence on her. She later joined the First Presbyterian Church, where she was an active Sunday School teacher and devoted participant in Vacation Bible School. Later becoming a charter member of Covenant Presbyterian Church.  

In addition to her accomplishments in education and faith, Margery was a passionate individual who took her civic responsibilities seriously. This was very important to her. A proud and strong Republican, she served as an alternate delegate to the Republican National Committee and attended Ronald Reagan's inauguration, which she considered one of the highlights of her life. Margery’s influence extended to serving on the State Economic Council, further showcasing her commitment to her community and country. 

She was predeceased by her parents, Lewis and Maude Bays, and her beloved husband of 65 years, Robert Lee Yeager Jr., brother, Lewis William Bays, Jr. and sister, Mary Eugenia Martin who were both instrumental in shaping the person she became. 

Margery’s greatest legacy lies in her family. She is survived by her loving son, Robert Yeager III “Bob” and his wife Linda of Skene, MS; and her loving daughters, Margaret Ann St. Peter of Inverness, MS and Susan Marie Yeager Gleason of Madison, MS; grandchildren, Kim Yeager Abide (Gary), Laura Yeager Butler (Jeff), Lacey St. Peter Fitts (Paxton), Wendy Yeager Holladay (Rob), Sonya St. Peter Canfield, Andrea Yeager Edwards (Aaron), Anna Michele Gleason; 14 great grandchildren special niece, Bettye Hill, who all carry forward her values of love, faith, and dedication to education. 

As we reflect on Margery’s life, we remember a woman of faith, a pioneer in education, and a consistent source of support and love for her family and friends. Her legacy will be felt for generations to come, reminding us of the profound impact one life can have on so many. 

Memorials may be made to Covenant Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 896, Cleveland, MS 38732 or the charity of your choice.