Yolanda Dionne Harrison

In Loving Memory of Yolanda Dionne Harrison

September 25, 1980 - October 7, 2026

Yolanda Dionne Harrison, 46, departed this life on October 7, 2026, in Tyler, Texas. Her life was one marked by compassion, humility, service, and an extraordinary ability to make others feel loved, included, and seen.

Yolanda was born on September 25, 1980, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Van Howard Harrison and Sharon Gwynette Patterson. Raised in New Orleans, Yolanda attended West Jefferson High School, where she graduated in 1998. She later continued her education at Bryman College, earning her Associate's Degree. Throughout much of her professional life, Yolanda worked as a bank teller in the banking industry, where her warm personality and caring spirit were evident to those she encountered.

From an early age, Yolanda possessed a quiet confidence and natural ability to lead. During her high school years, she became known as the quintessential queen, earning the titles of Military Ball Queen, Sweetheart Dance Queen, and Homecoming Queen. Yet, what made Yolanda truly special was not the crowns she wore, but the humility with which she wore them. Despite being well-known and loved by so many, she never considered herself better than anyone else. She had a beautiful way of making people feel welcome, valued, and important. Yolanda will forever be remembered as a humble leader.

Ambitious, caring, compassionate, and remarkably selfless, Yolanda consistently considered the needs of others, often placing them before her own. She freely gave her time and talents to others and volunteered with various organizations throughout her life. She also enjoyed sewing, arts and crafts, and helping friends plan and coordinate special events, always willing to lend her creativity, organization, and support to make someone else's occasion memorable.

Of all the titles Yolanda held throughout her life, none meant more to her than Mother. She was the proud and devoted mother of Aniyah Simms, who was truly her heartbeat. Some of her most treasured moments were the simple ones, especially spending time with Aniyah. Whether they were going to the movies together or enjoying movie nights in the park, the bond they shared was undeniable. Yolanda's unconditional love and dedication to her daughter inspired her to become a strong advocate for autism awareness and acceptance. She was committed to ensuring that Aniyah was supported, celebrated, and understood. Her advocacy reflected the same qualities that defined Yolanda's life: love, compassion, determination, and a desire to ensure that others were seen and valued.

Yolanda was preceded in death by her father, Van Howard Harrison; stepfather, James Patterson; sister, Sherika Harrison; grandmother, Nancy Harrison; and grandfather, Willie Harrison.

She is survived by her loving mother, Sharon Gwynette Patterson; her beloved daughter, Aniyah Simms; and a host of cousins, extended family members, and close friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing and loving her.

Although Yolanda's earthly life ended far too soon, the impact of her 46 years will continue through the countless people she loved, encouraged, supported, and served. She will be remembered for her beautiful smile, compassionate heart, selflessness, creativity, humility, leadership, and unwavering devotion to her daughter. Yolanda wore many crowns, but her greatest legacy was never found in a title. It was found in how she treated people, how she served others, how deeply she loved, and how effortlessly she made others feel that they belonged.

Now, Yolanda receives her eternal crown .