Gladys "Yayi" Oehler

Gladys (Yayi) Oehler, a compassionate and spirited soul, was called home on March 6, 2026. Born on May 30, 1956, in Manzanillo, Cuba, Yayi was a generous and loving woman known for her vibrant spirit and dedication to her faith. She lived her life creating moments of joy and happiness for everyone she encountered. She had a very special way of making those around her feel seen, heard and needed.

Married to Dave Oehler since July 11, 1980, the bond they shared was a symbol of enduring love. They began their lives together in Provo, Utah, until Dave was transferred to Albuquerque, New Mexico, then 11 years later their family moved to Arizona where they spent the last 22 years. Yayi was a devoted mother to Peter, Jason, Kylie, Steven and Natalie, and a doting "Abuela" who found her greatest joy in the laughter and love of her 20 grandchildren. She also loved to cook (although never writing down the recipes) as well as dancing to Cuban music, usually at the same time. Her pride was an open door and a table that always had room for more.

Yayi was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served the women and children of her church with dedication and love. Serving in Primary brought her happiness, and she had a special talent of creatively reaching every child in the way they needed. Her faith was a shining beacon that guided her through life, and it was evident in everything she did. She is survived by her husband Dave, her children Peter (Debora), Jason (Doris), Kylie (Loren), Steven (Lacey) and Natalie (Jason). Her parents, Nicolas and Gladys Alard, preceded her in death.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 1:00pm MST at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 13277 West Thomas Road, Goodyear, Arizona, 85395. The funeral will follow at 2:00pm MST at the same location. A graveside interment will occur on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 10:00am MST at the Provo City Cemetery, 610 South State Street, Provo, Utah, 84606.

To honor the life and legacy of Yayi, we kindly invite you to share your memories and upload photos to her memorial page. Let us remember her not just for her departure, but for the vibrant and spirited life she lived, touching us all with her loving heart and compassionate spirit.