Yvonne Anne LePont Backus

Yvonne Anne LePont Backus passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025, just ten days after celebrating her 80th birthday. She was born on May 16, 1945, in Torrance, California, to Roger W. LePont and Mildred R. Gough. Yvonne spent her childhood in Lomita, California, alongside her two sisters and brother. She attended Catholic elementary school within walking distance of her home and later pursued public education at Alexander Fleming Middle School and Narbonne High School in Harbor City.
At Narbonne, Yvonne took classes in Home Economics, focusing on clothing design and fashion. She was an active student, involved in school clubs and the drill team. In December 1961, she met the love of her life, Lee Backus, beginning a devoted partnership that would span over six decades.
Yvonne graduated in 1963 and continued her studies at California State University, Long Beach, where she earned her degree in Home Economics with an emphasis on fashion design. She and Lee married in August 1966 and built a life together rooted in love, mutual respect, and shared dreams.
In the early years of her career, Yvonne worked in retail fashion, but eventually found her calling in education. After moving to San Diego in 1969, she began teaching elementary school, embarking on a long and fulfilling career that would touch the lives of countless students. She earned both her teaching credential and later a Master of Arts in Educational Psychology with a focus on Early Childhood Development from California State University, Northridge.
In 1972, Yvonne gave birth to her daughter, Renee, and shortly thereafter, the family settled in Simi Valley, California. She balanced motherhood, career, and continuing education with grace and determination. Yvonne later transitioned to middle school, where she especially enjoyed teaching computers and math, inspired by her students' enthusiasm.
Despite facing serious health challenges, including rheumatoid arthritis and valley fever, Yvonne remained dedicated to her work and family. She retired from teaching in 2005 at the age of 60 with the goal of seeing the world. A passionate traveler, Yvonne made her first trip to Europe in 1970 and looked forward to her adventures every summer. After retirement, her love of cruising took her across the globe, even completing a round-the-world journey.
In her later years, Yvonne faced additional health complications, including a spinal fracture in 2017 and heart valve issues in 2025. Through it all, her greatest joy remained her close relationship with her daughter, Renee, and the unwavering love she shared with her husband, Lee.
Yvonne is survived by her beloved husband Lee, daughter Renee, sister Madeleine, and brother Jean. She will be remembered for her creativity, perseverance, love of learning, and above all, the deep and unconditional love she gave to her family.
A private memorial will be held to honor Yvonne's life and legacy.