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YVONNE WARDEN Obituary

WARDEN--Yvonne. 85, Actress and former dancer. Yvonne Warden, led a distinguished career that spanned over 50 years. She started out as a chorus dancer in the 1940's, then fulfilled her dream to become an actress. She died in her sleep on March 12th, 2013 in Manhattan. She was 85. The cause was emphysema, said her son, James Warden. Her first play was in 1967, "The Trials Of Brother Jero and the Strong Breed". She did a great deal of Off-Broadway, TV, soaps, films including "The Cosby Show" and "Law & Order" to name a few. The most important thing in Yvonne's life was being a great mother to her son, James. Which she was. She was an activist in fighting for positive representation of actors of color on soap operas. Audiences will remember her as "Joanna" in Kool & the Gang's hit music video. Sometime this year a memorial will be held in her honor.

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Published by New York Times on Mar. 12, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for YVONNE WARDEN

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Susan Willerman

March 6, 2025

Your friendship and great spirit lives on - I miss you.
Love,
Susan

Cynthia Pitt

April 9, 2024

Yvonne you showed me such kindness when I visited your beautiful apartment with your lovely son James. You gently enlightened me about what it was like to experience entrenched racism something that I have reflected on over the years from my privileged Australian background. I thank you for that.

Jim Willis

March 7, 2024

Still missing those Sunday Brunches!

Susan Willerman

March 6, 2024

Yvonne- a most unique and remarkable person. My gratitude for your friendship always. I miss you. Love,
Susan

Susan Willerman

March 6, 2023

Miss you so much, Yvonne and I think of you often.

Jim Willis

March 8, 2022

I have so many great memories of times spent with Yvonne, talking to her on the phone, Sunday brunches, my driving her home from rehearsals. Those drives were classic. Filled with great conversations and more laughter than anyone driving a car in Manhattan should be experiencing, and then the car caught fire! Yep, right in the middle of Columbus Ave. Fear, panic, and finally more gut busting laughter at my efforts to get everyone out of the car safely. And so it went. Miss you much, Dear Friend!

Susan Willerman

March 7, 2022

I think of Yvonne so often and miss her so much. James, Edgar asks about you a lot and I hope you are doing ok. Sending you love,
Susan

Ellen Whyte

March 16, 2019

So many happy memories of the times we shared. Creative Alternatives, Jasa. Gouveneur...Sag Harbor, special lunches and birthday celebrations. I miss you Yvonne. Sending you love James.

Gilbert Tucker

March 14, 2019

We are all blessed to have had an opportunity to know Ms. Warden & her infectious smile.

Ejaye Tracey

March 13, 2019

I'll always remember Yvonne's wonderful smile! She was very special and now resides with the angels!

March 7, 2019

I miss Yvonne and think of her so often. Her wisdom, wit and great stories of her life. James, I think of you too and hope you are well. Sending love,
Susan W

Leon Pinkney

March 6, 2019

I was just thinking of Yvonne the other day. Thoughts of Yvonne pops up into mind every so often throughout the years. She was in a film I wrote and played the lead in, in 1966-67. She was always very kind and I always saw her with that big smile. She is an intricate and important part of my past. I do miss Yvonne Warden. Her son James Warden is a great friend even though we don't see each other for long periods of time these days. We share the same birth date, May 2. I know that wherever you are Yvonne, God has you covered.

March 16, 2016

I think of you often too, dear Yvonne, and miss seeing you and talking with you. James, I think of you too, and hope you are doing alright. We were all very fortunate to have Yvonne in our lives!
Susan

Leon Pinkney

March 14, 2016

Hi Yvonne. I know you're still around, somewhere doing God's work. It's something that I should be writing this to you today, because, I dreamed of James just last night. Wow. What timing. Anyway, I spent some beautiful moments with you as well as with James, years back. In fact, I don't know if he told you that he and I share the same birthday. May 2nd. You see, we have more in common. Thank you for being apart of my life, and if the Father has something to do with it, I'll see you again. It will surely be a great occasion.

March 13, 2016

Its been 3 years since you left ma, and I think of you everyday. I just want to thank you for everything that you instilled in me. I carry all of your lessons and experiences with me daily. So, in that respect you are always with me. I'm so grateful to you being such an exceptional human being. Don't worry about me, I'm holding down the fort! I think the one thing you'd like to happen is to have President Obama voted back into office for a third term!I'm so glad that you helped to vote him for his 2 terms! I love you.....

Dana Manno

March 15, 2015

Gone but never forgotten dear friend.

I met Yvonne when we did this play, "The Swing" by Ajene Washington. The friendship was instant.

Jim willis

March 14, 2015

March 13, 2015

Its been two years since you have gone. I think of you everyday mom. Your lessons on life have helped me tremendously. You are always with me, in my heart. The memorial will be done this year. I love and miss you. Your son, James

February 5, 2015

You'd be very proud of your son. He's a fabulous human being and that's because of you. Rest in peace always.

Leon Pinkney

November 5, 2014

Yes, Yvonne was a great human being, as well as a great actress. I performed along her in 1967 in a film I wrote entitled "You Dig It'. I'm truly I had the opportunity to be apart of her history. Leon Pinkney

Albert Salas

November 3, 2014

James Warden? I am so sorry for your loss. I too lost my mother last year she was 84. I understand the pain one feels when they lose their loving mother . May she rest in peace. May God give you strength, peace and understanding to accept this loss and help you move forward.

November 2, 2014

YVONNE WARDEN, was a great actress. A very loving and caring mother. A wonderful person to everyone she ever met. Ms.Warden was a great inspiration to every actor that had the opportunity to work with her. THANK U YVONNE WARDEN FOR ALL!
David Harris

jim willis

August 4, 2014

Yvonne, we shared so many laughs, like when I threw you all out of my car because it had caught fire. And you said that only your mother made better potato salad that I did. And there were the times I wanted to call you but I would look at the clock and see that it was about time for Jeopardy to come on the TV. HAHAHA! So many laughs, so many warm and wonderful memories. You are missed so much, by so many. Love you much!

Ejaye Tracey

May 28, 2014

Yvonne was the first woman of color I worked with when coming to New York City in my first major role in a stage production. She was generous and supportive. A very elegant woman.

May 28, 2014

I am truly stunned we live this life and forget it just ticks along and at some point transition arrives. Yvonne what can I say that glorious smile and buoyant laughter. I remember her fondly for whenever we worked together we would get in trouble for laughing during rehearsals and cutting up about something. What a joyous joyous soul who without a doubt absolutely adored her son James. May she rest in eternal peace.

With Love and Respect,

Akin' Babatunde'

Linda Clark

May 27, 2014

You were a bright light to this world and your beautiful spirit lives on in the light of our hearts. "thank you" for your smiles and giving the world James.

Kyle Duncan

May 27, 2014

Sorry for your loss James. I'll miss your mom a great deal. She was often a positive influence in my outlook on life. I am a better person, thanks to you and your mom. Farewell wherever you are Yvonne.

Pamela Riley

May 11, 2014

Today is "Mother's Day" and I want to honor my dear friend Yvonne Warden, as a great mother. I'm sure it was etched in her DNA because she was so good at it. Yvonne was determined to raise her son James to possess all of the characteristics he would need to become a man of character and negotiate the inevitable storms of life. At this, she exceeded beyond measure. I watched over time as Yvonne carried this out from a deep well of love, with dignity, warmth, patience, respect for life, emotional integrity,
creativity and of course, great humor.
Yvonne, though you are gone, you will
never be forgotten. The sum of your exquisite character and everything else you stood for that mattered, will live on in your crown jewel, James. You loved life and we loved you. We were family and I will always cherish my memories of you and miss your presence on this earth. But today, I honor the memory of you as a great mother. R.I.P.

With love and gratitude,
~Pamela Riley

May 11, 2014

This will be the second Mother's Day not having you here. I have spent the day reflecting on all the times you made me laugh,and that great smile. Thank you for the 54 years of laughter and your positive outlook on life.I am who I am, because of you. Yes, you are my mother. But, you were also the best friend I ever had! I know you are acting or directing up there in Heaven, making MAGIC!
Love Always, Your Son James (May 2014)

Gilbert Tucker

May 3, 2014

Hearing about Ms. Warden's passing was a very sad occasion for me. Back in my H.S. days she was like a second Mother to me because James & I were like Brothers. We spent a lot of time at each others homes. She was a beautiful person & will most definitely be missed. My family & I send our condolences out to you James. Always remember if you need anything you still have an extended family. God Bless you my Brother.

May 3, 2014

"I never had the opportunity or pleasure of working with Yvonne, but she was one of my staunchest supporters. I know she came to see "Eden" a few times (and not just because her son was in it)and I can't tell you how many times she came to see "Nevis Mountain Dew". She always refused an offered "comp" and insisted on paying for her ticket. Her words were always gracious, generous and much appreciated." Steve Carter

sylvia Tietjen-Morrell

April 25, 2014

Dear James, sorry that you lost your wonderful mum. I always remember her coming to Munich same as you and being a guest at your home. God bless.
Sylvie

April 23, 2014

You fought the good fight long and hard, Yvonne, now rest in peace, we miss you -- Sundra Jean (“Sunny”) Williams

April 18, 2014

Yvonne was a kind and wonderful person. She was an inspiration as an actress and a joy to be around. I always felt welcome in her home. Her tenacity of spirit and her commitment to her son will never be forgotten. I hope the good memories will sustain James, her son. May she rest in peace.
Much love,
Michele
Los Angeles

Joan Valentina

April 15, 2014

Yvonne was my Superstar. You see, I had seen her wonderful stage and screen performances long before we met. When she reached out and we became friends, I was in awe. She took me under her wings and showed me the way. But,Yvonne wasn't just a Superstar on stage. She was a Superstar in the way she planted and nurtured her seeds of friendship. She was a Superstar in the way she raised her Son. She was a Superstar in the way she tackled global social injustices and tried to make them right.
I miss her smile.
However,Superstars never die. They shine on forever in our hearts.

Warmly,
Joan Valentina

March 30, 2014

Dear World,
One of the greatest mothers who walked on earth was Yvonne Warden. Her love and hopes for her son James (Jimmy) was so profound and touching that it will resonate with those who knew her for the rest of our lives. May her gentleness and love stay in Jimmy's heart and may he share many of his stories about his Mom with us.

Fondly,
Edie

March 30, 2014

Yvonne had the most pleasing, sunny personality. She was such a vibrant woman and made one feel they were truly "a very special person." I was privileged to appear with her in "Suddenly Last Summer" the opening production of Henry Street Settlement's New Federal Theatre in New York City in 1970.

Yvonne loved the Theatre and was a committed and gifted actress. I will miss her greatly.

Fondly
Edie Lynch

Dana Manno

March 27, 2014

My dear sweet friend, I think about you every day. You always brought positive, creative energy into my life. I miss you more than anyone can imagine. May a light always shine around your spirit.

JEFFERY V. THOMPSON

March 19, 2014

I am proud to lift my voice in praise and remembrance of my friend, neighbor and fellow artist, Yvonne. Your grace, charm and kindness still vibrate in my memory, and your beautiful smile greets all of us who are lucky enough to have James as a part of our day-to-day coming and goings! Brava! Well done!!

March 19, 2014

Cherish the wonderful memories James.
Stanley Hopkins

Yvonne loved this photo - we had such a lovely time at Jezebel with our group of friends.

Lori Chinn

March 17, 2014

March 16, 2014

Yvonne was a distinguished woman, and an asset to our community. Along with her son, James, she was also a great neighbor. She will be missed.

Ashley Astarita

March 15, 2014

We honor you Aunt Yvonne.
Great Niece,
Ashley Ayana Astarita, FL

Cheryl Astarita

March 15, 2014

Aunt Yvonne,
You are one of the most powerful examples in my life of an accomplished humanitarian that shared her talents with the world, while maintaining grace, peace and and a glowing spirit. I most admire your greatest work - the kind spirit you raised into a dynamic man -
James Warden. I appreciate all that you stood for. I will always love you.
Rev. Dr. Cheryl Astarita, FL

March 15, 2014

Yvonne, you are missed but you live in my heart and my memories. Your spirit is still present in all of us who knew you and loved you. Rest in peace, we shall see you again. With love and thanks
Kali Grosvenor

March 15, 2014

My greatest memory in your home is when Clebert Ford and I, entertained you, your beloved James, and another guest in an anthology of Every song that Ever made it to the theatre. You and James joined us, until you were too weary to continue, and James had to "kick us to the curb" just before dawn.
How gracious you were, Yvonne, and what Fun we had that night. It will live Forever, in my memory!

David Downing, L.A.

Frances Conlin Tomah

March 15, 2014

Yvonne. You and Cynthia were my friends, my mentors, and the only sanity to which I had access in a mad world in the 60's on the Lower East Side. You shared enough of your strength and example that I could leave an impossible situation, and I am forever in your debt. Your laughter and stories still ring in my ears . . .

Marta Conlin

March 14, 2014

Thinking of you with deep fondness and childhood memories . . . neighbors on East 2nd. Street for some magical years, my family remembers your grace, kindness, and infectious smile, and your pride and joy in your son . . . <3

March 14, 2014

My mentor, my "second mom", my friend. Kim Yancey

Jones's family

March 14, 2014

Sincere condolences, reflecting on past fond memories is a source of encouragement, also turn to the hearer of prayers and God of all comfort who promises to do away with death shortly

June Gual

March 13, 2014

James, I will always remember your mother as an intelligent, beautiful and delightful woman who more than anything else, loved her son. You are the greatest reflection and memorial of her life. I pray that God brings you comfort to get through the times that you miss her most. God bless.

Gary Felbrant

March 13, 2014

My darling Yvonne My Mom is with you and hope you are
having some soul food You were like my second Mom
Please take care my wonderful friend I love you so much
Gary Felbrant

Inez Elizabeth De Jesus

March 13, 2014

Yvonne, what a great legacy you have left behind; to me the greatest role you played, and you played them all well, was in bringing into this world and the fine rearing of your awesome one and only Son, James. God bless you and Rest in Peace my dear! You are a class act!!

ellen whyte

March 13, 2014

Yvonne...you were a light in my life. How we laughed and shared and created and inspired. You were a loyal and loving friend to me. The gift that kept on giving. I miss you so much! When I think of you I will always smile.

Yvonne

March 13, 2014

Yvonne was a very beautiful and dignified woman whom I had the pleasure and honor to know. Her legacy and being a strong woman will be a source of strength for me.
Yvonne from Queens

Mizan Kirby-Nunes

March 13, 2014

Warm,generous,thoughtful friend.Thank you.Mizan Kirby-Nunes

Scott Ivey

March 13, 2014

A lovely Lady. Peace and Dancing!

March 13, 2014

Will always remember your kindness, generosity of spirit and humor when we worked together in St. Mark's Place.
L.B. Williams

March 12, 2014

This is a beautiful tribute to you, dear and most special Yvonne. I miss you and think of you so much, and hold dear many wise and funny things you have shared during the many years of our friendship. Seeing your many accomplishments in these sentences kindles my admiration for you all over again. It was such a privilege and joy to be your friend.
Love,
Susan (Willerman)

Kim Sullivan

March 12, 2014

You were always a sweetheart,rest easy.

Lori Chinn

March 12, 2014

My Dearest, Dynamic, Dazzling "Silver Fox": I am feeling so blessed that we were friends, that I had the pleasure of meeting your greatest creation, James, and that you shared precious "girl time" with me. You cared about every thing and every one in your life. You are missed, but I know that you are enjoying being reunited with your dear, crazy, adorable friends, Bea Winde, Cynthia Belgrave, Robert Stocking, Clebert Ford, and a whole community on the other side who are having a great time welcoming you into the fold. We will meet again. For now, we all send our love & admiration for a life very well lived.

james warden

March 12, 2014

I shall miss you mom, forever. Thank you for being the best mother/friend a son could ever ask for...I shall always reserve a special place in my heart for you...

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