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Yvonne Staples Obituary
A Chicago funeral home confirmed that the singer died at her home in the South Shore neighborhood.
She was born in Chicago to Pops and Oceola Staples. She began singing at a young age in church with her sister Mavis and brother Pervis.
The Staple Singers were known for their beautiful harmonies. The group began in the 1940’s and signed their first record label contract in 1952. They recorded for many labels including Checker and Epic.
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Yvonne took over for her brother Pervis in 1970, joining Pops, Cleotha, and Mavis.
The group took their gospel roots and combined that with soul, funk, blues, and pop to create their sound. They had many hit songs including “Respect Yourself” and the number one song, “I’ll Take You There.” Yvonne performed on those songs and other classics.
The Staple Singers performed with the Band on their legendary concert for the film “The Last Waltz.” Bob Dylan was a big fan of the group and mentioned them as an influence.
The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.
127 Entries
Kaashif Ameer
January 28, 2021
I grew listening to the Staple Singers . Oh how I remember at the cookouts during the summer listening to I take you there .
March 30, 2019
I am a fan of the staples and my heart go out to you guys love Michelle Hamilton
Miguel Rodriguez
February 11, 2019
I am so sorry to hear about Yvonne's passing which I learned about while watching the Grammys last night. I had the pleasure of meeting Yvonne and Ms. Mavis at Pope Joy Hall in Albuquerque, NM. May she rest in peace.
How you can show support
Elfredia Williams
May 25, 2018
I have always admired the Staples and the ones that have passed on especially Yvonne Staples will be truly missed RIP Yvonne.
E. Williams .
Sara Froggatt
May 18, 2018
Praying for the family
May 18, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
pam m
May 11, 2018
friday
i am truly saddened by the death of
Mrs. Yvonne Staples. i just love y'all
close knit vocal harmonies, jam sessions
soul tappin' lessons. Miss Mavis, i love
your voice, humor & musical interpret -
ations. will be in my heart & thoughts
for a very long time to come. see you on
the road one day - soon
with sincerity and respect
May 8, 2018
I would like to express my deepest sympathies for the loss of your loved one, who will be remembered for her contribution to the music industry. May you find comfort and help in God during this time of sorrow.
(Psalms 86:17)
Leonard Tucker
May 2, 2018
Saddened by the news that Ms.Staples has died. I.enjoyed listening to the soul music The Staple Singers recorded in the 70s. They gave a fine performance in the Wattstax movie music concert.My condolences to the surviving members of the family and may the GOD of all comfort give comfort to all of you.
S K
April 30, 2018
Oh how I remember this music! I still listen to the Staple Singers music now. I grew up on their music. I'm so sorry to hear of Yvonne' s passing. May her family know that our Heavenly Creator feels there pain and He will help them to get through these difficult times.
MW
April 26, 2018
May God's word provide comfort to your hearts in this time of distress. Condolences on the loss to the music industry.
R C
April 24, 2018
Deepest sympathy to the family and friends of this amazing and talented lady. May the God of all comfort ease your hearts and bring you a measure of peace knowing she is in his care.
F L
April 24, 2018
To The Staples Family,
Death leaves a heartache that only Almighty God can heal. Love leaves precious memories that know one can steal. May, "the God of all comfort," be with you and your family during this time of sorrow.1Cor 15:26
With Kindness and Heartfelt Regret.
Henry Staples
April 19, 2018
I'll never forget all the memories we've shared, and all our up bringing and things we've shared together , I will forever miss you my sister. Love Henry
Wanda Watkins
April 17, 2018
The Heavenly Choir just improved.
Thank You for all the great memories of Godly music.
You are Home now in the arms of Jesus...Praise God
robert greene greene
April 16, 2018
TO MAVIS , I AM SO GLAD I HAD THE PRIVILEGE TO MEET YOU AND YOUR FAMILY SEVERAL TIMES, HERE IN LOUISVILLE KY. I AM A VERY VERY BIG FAN OF THE STAPLE SINGERS. MAY YVONNE REST IN PEACE, ALONG WITH MOM AND POP'S & CLEEDY. YOU WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS. BLESS YOU, ROBERT GREENE.
Charinita Oliver Frye
April 16, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Hazel Wynn
April 16, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
April 16, 2018
I do remember well the husky rhythmic voice that
accompanied Mavis and Pops Staples 'taking us there' in a most titillating way. I am sorry for their loss. A very vocal and instrumentally entertaining family! So long for a while.
Katrina Dixon
April 16, 2018
Life changing music. Thankful for her. May you have peace in memories of love.
Semira R.
April 15, 2018
My sincere sympathy for the Staples family. May Yvonne's soul rest in eternal peace. Thank you Yvonne for you sharing your God given talent of music with the world.
In prayer for the departed Soul of Yvonne Staples
Rev Vergie Anderson-Thompson
April 15, 2018
Heartfelt sympathies to Mavis, Pervis, and family on the loss of your beloved, Yvonne. Yvonne lived her life with grace and dignity, and was a successful business manager for the acclaimed Staple Singers. My friend of 33 years will be truly missed.♥
Evans family
April 15, 2018
With thoughts of sympathy for the Staples family and friends. In the loss of one who meant so much for every memory in your heart this brings thoughts of peace. May the peace of God guard your hearts.
Wylene Flowers
April 15, 2018
Sweet rest my precious sister in the Lord. Thank you for blessing us with the wonderful gift of song that God gave you.
Much Love,
faith/rory tobin/dockett
April 14, 2018
Dear Staples Family Rory and I would luv to express our condolences's on the loss of Yvonne Staples.she'll surely be missed.luv,faith/rory
April 14, 2018
My deepest condolences to the family of Yvonne Staples. When I was a girl I saw the Staple singers at my church in Newark NJ.I have always seen anything associated with their name.May Yvonne Rest in Peace with other family members and may the Good Lord keep her by his side.
GB in Colonie NY
Johnnie M Brown
April 14, 2018
My Condolences to Yvonne Staples Family, Friends, and her Fans.
Debbie
April 14, 2018
Staples family I am so sorry for your lost, I pray that your family gain strength from God as he gives you the comfort knowing that he feels your suffering. ( Zechariah 2:8)
April 14, 2018
So very sorry for your loss. May your family gain strength from God as you lean on him.
Thomas & Libby Widgeon
April 14, 2018
Sorry For Your Loss!
Ronnie Miller
April 14, 2018
My condolences to the Staples family."All Is Not Lost" when you lose a friend.
Peace always!
Rose Brown&family
April 13, 2018
My heart goes out to the family God bless you all in strentgh
Viola HughesSex
April 13, 2018
Look to the Lord for comfort and strength.
Ricky Leftridge
April 13, 2018
My dear mother introduced me to the Staple singers with their Gospel music when I was growing up. I attended their concerts Everytime I knew they were in town. I was always partial to Yvonne, beautiful lady and voice. Love allways
Minney Milton
April 13, 2018
Sorry for your (our) loss. During my 20 years in Chicago, The Staple Singers "blessed" me in song as they performed at numerous South Side events as well as other locations. May God continue to bless your family during this difficult time.
Thomas Staples
April 13, 2018
Our condolences on the passing of our beloved family member who contributed so much to the world trough her talent and wisdom R. I. P.
Thomas and Barbara Staples and family
John Curran
April 13, 2018
Sorry for your trouble
This World to the next
Thank-you and God bless you
Dedria Jenkins
April 13, 2018
God bless your soul, My Condolences to the
The rest of the family Marva, God bless and comfort you, for your loss ♱✡
Vicki Foster
April 13, 2018
To the Staples family,
You are so loved and remembered as a wonderfully talented and close-knit family. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with you during this time of transition. Rest in sweet peace Yvonne Staples!!
Jimmie Lee Jones
April 13, 2018
Many thanks for soulful music and social conscious lyrics you and your family gave us. RIP
Dea. Eddie A. Franklin
April 13, 2018
April 13, 2018
Sing in God'ss Heaven Yvonne! Your voice lives in our hearts and minds forever!
GERALDINE BEALE
April 13, 2018
Condolences to the family, Peace be still.
Bridget Dickerson
April 13, 2018
Praying for the family.
Denise Powell
April 13, 2018
To the family, my deepest condolences goes to you,I grew up listening to the staples singers,the earthy sound that was produced from them always hit my heart and soul,so now the many songs that were song from Yvonne and others will never be forgotten ,because at this time may your family continue to share the legacy as we await the reserrection of Yvonne.May she sleep in peace.
D W
April 13, 2018
With heartfelt sympathy. Please accept my deepest condolences. May you continue to cherish the precious memories you had together. May you find comfort in the God of all comfort to offer you comfort and to give you the strength to endure during these difficult times ahead.
Jeannie Collins
April 13, 2018
My sincere condolence to the Staples family.. I loved all of the Staples Singers songs .. it brings back fond memories
Bessie Ayres
April 13, 2018
Sorry to hear of your loss, Family.
She will be dearly missed.
I LOVE your MUSIC!
April 13, 2018
Staples Family, Friends, Fans,
So sorry to learn of the passing of Yvonne. Our condolences and heartfelt prayers are with the entire family at this difficult time. We love her and we will miss her. She had a beautiful voice. Her and her family could really singing. God is our refuge and strength.-PS.46:1
Deepest Sympathy
CJ
April 13, 2018
R.I.P. Ms. Yvonne
I Love "Let's Do It Again" and so many other Staple Singers songs.
Terrone Sterling
April 13, 2018
To The Family,
Simply put, the Staple Singers were GREAT! I really admired how Pop Staples set an example for all fathers today, - that of teaching and working along with his children. As a young teenager, I remember my parents, aunt, and their crew jamming on the music of the Staple singers. When Ms. Staples is awaken from the sleep of death by the Lord Jesus, she will have the precious privilege of living forever in God's new world, where sickness and death will not exist. (John 11:11-14, 25) I am so sorry to learn of The death of Ms. Yvonne Staples.
Sincerely,
Terrone Sterling
Saul & Louise Holmes
April 12, 2018
Mavis
You have our sincere sympathy at this time of bereavement in the loss of Yvonne, sister and best friend. My prayers go out to you as she rest in peace andGod blesses her.
Saul and Louise Holmes
Mary Dyer
April 12, 2018
Sorry for family's loss. I recall a wonderful performance in Boston in the 70's.
Harry Simpson
April 12, 2018
Godspeed Yvonne, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
April 12, 2018
Condolences to the family. Thank you for your everlasting legacy of beautiful music.
Rhonda, MD
MS
April 12, 2018
They had such beautiful voices. My condolences for your loss. God will give you the strength and comfort you need to endure during this time of grief.
Telain Ware
April 12, 2018
Yvonne was a quiet observer who spoke with autority and much wisdom. I carry the lessons she blessed me with in 1985 to this day. Our hearts are sad. My thoughts and prayers are with cousins Pervis and Mavis, hoping that your pain will one day be replaced with happy memories of the life spent with dear Yvonne. God's peace to the entire Staples family.
April 12, 2018
My condolences to the Staples Family. She will be missed. May you lean on God as he promises to sustain you during this difficult time.
ALFONSO "BOO" CRAWFORD
April 12, 2018
MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO THE STAPLES FAMILY. THANK YOU FOR THE BEAUTIFUL MUSIC YOU GAVE WORLD.I REMEMBER IT LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY AS A BOY LISTENING TO AND WATCHING MY DADDY PLAY YOUR MUSIC OVER AND OVER NON STOP .THIS WAS A BEAUTIFUL THING AND MEMORIES FOR A LIFE TIME.THANK YOU.
April 12, 2018
Our prayers are with your family The Anderson Family.
Min. Carl Gary
April 11, 2018
To the family of Ms. Yvonne Staples I offer unto you all my deepest condolence. May the peace of God usher your beloved Yvonne Staples into His place of rest from all of her labors.
Jesus did say in The Gospel according to John 14:1-3 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
God bless you Staples family.
L. Bentley
April 11, 2018
Staple Family, deepest condolences. I and the world loved the music of the Staple Singers. She will certainly be missed. May you lean on God to get the comfort that only He can give. John 11:41-44
Tonya Gunn
April 11, 2018
May Your Precious Soul Rest In Peace
Valenda Newell
April 11, 2018
A WONDERFUL SINGING FAMILY that was enjoyed by millions in the 70's and 80's ..The STAPLE SINGERS were on all the TV shows back then singing their signature NO. 1 HIT....."I'LL TAKE YOU THERE"..my all time favorite. Yvonne's vocals always on point, a very talented lady who will always be known for being a member of the most famous church family from CHICAGO.....MANY MANY BLESSINGS
Bettie m Smith
April 11, 2018
Sorry to here about Yvonne passing I love the staples singers very much I love you Yvonne but God loves you the best I know you be singing unlock your mind I take you there let's do it again we want here you sing anymore r. I. p Yvonne tell pop staples and your sisters hello up there
Hope
April 11, 2018
RIP
M. Solari
April 11, 2018
Lifelong fan of the Staples. What a true gift their singing voices are to all of us. Rest in Peace, Yvonne Staples.
D Sample
April 11, 2018
Condolences to the family. Draw close to God and he will draw close to you and help you endure during this difficult time.
Sam Sharp
April 11, 2018
My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time of grief. And a big "Thank You" for the great music you and your family recorded. I was a DJ for many many years and I always looked forward to any music you did. It was always inspiring and uplifting. May the good Lord bless and keep you and offer the comfort to your family only He can.
Hyde
April 11, 2018
I've loved the music of the staple singer for years. I am sorry to hear of Evonne's passing. The family has my sincere condolences. May God grant the family peace and comfort.
Denise
April 11, 2018
Thank you, RIP
Ann
April 11, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Adrian Barnette
April 11, 2018
We'll miss you !
April 11, 2018
Grew up listening to this group and I remember all their hit songs . So sorry to hear of Yvonne's passing. I'm sure many others professional as well as people who used to listen to their music feel the same way. My sincere condolences for your loss.
Carolyn Murray & Family
April 11, 2018
To The Staples Family,
My family sends our heartfelt condolences to your family at this most somber time of bereavement; on the passing of your Loved One (Yvonne). I will forever treasure the wonderful, soulful memories of the "Staple Singers" music & performances. May Yvonne soar amongst the other heavenly angels as they sing on that masterful choir in HEAVEN... GOD needed a few more powerful voices. The Almighty knows our paths and he has it all under control. RIP Yvonne
April 11, 2018
My deepest condolence to the Staples family. May you rejoice in God comforting words. 1Cor 15:26
Alma Addy
April 11, 2018
Listening to The Staple Singers on Saturdays while cleaning the house and helping Mama cook made everything alright...Beautiful family, God Bless Y'all
Kathryn Irby
April 11, 2018
Another of Mississippi's Own Great musicians. Thanks for the memories. Rest in Peace, Yvonne Staples.
Linda
April 11, 2018
Condolences to Ms. Staples' family. I enjoy listening to the Staples singers. Thank you for bringing such a beautiful voice to the world. May she rest in peace.
Alice Johnson
April 11, 2018
My prayers and condolences to the Staples family. Thank you for music with substance.
BRENDA DABBS
April 11, 2018
TO THE FAMILY: WE ARE SO SORRY FRO YOUR LOSS. OUR PRAYERS AND HEARTFELT THOUGHTS ARE WITH EACH OF YOU . R.I.P. BEAUTIFUL SONG BIRD, YOU CAN SANG BEHIND THE GOLDEN GATES. FROM BRENDA DABBS & MICHEAL LEE GOOLSBY. , BELCAMP ,MARYLAND.
Tracey
April 11, 2018
Thank you Yvonne and the Staples family for your soul stirring rhythms and inspiration for good in the world.
Deepest sympathy to the Staples family.
Jacquie Musick
April 11, 2018
Loved the Staples singers music. Especially,I'll take you there. Lord,give comfort and love and laughter to the Staples friends and family
April 11, 2018
Sorry for your loss Ms Staples songs mature all of us be side you were a great singer Will Be Missed.
Gail Boyd-Davis
April 11, 2018
I am so sorry to hear about Yvonne. I grew up in Meridian, Ms. It's less than Eighty miles from Forest, Mississippi, their Hometown. We loved the "Staple Singers" I'll Take You There" was just one of my favorites. They came to my school when I was in the Ninth grade around 1964 and they lit up the stage. They were singing only Gospels then. Everything changes in it's time.
Gail Davis
South Chesterfield, Virginia. (Via, Meridian).
Charles & Nancy Frederick
April 11, 2018
We light this candle for you Ms. Yvonne, GOD Bless you're soul and thank you for the memories!
April 11, 2018
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
SUE ANN
April 11, 2018
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
April 11, 2018
I remember an interview Yvonne did not too long ago, how she was still entertaining, wow! So sorry to hear of her death. Soon, God promises to end all suffering, including, sickness, old age and death.
Anthony (Tony) Waters
April 11, 2018
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
Vera Tharpe
April 11, 2018
Condolences to the family
April 11, 2018
Great singer, praying for the family, may the God of all comfort take care of your family
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