Yolanda Faye (Strayhorn) Gault

On June 2, 2026, Yolanda Faye peacefully transitioned from this earthly life into eternal rest, ascending her Stairway to Heaven into the loving arms of her Savior. Though her absence is deeply felt, her life leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Faye was born on December 2, 1958, in Cincinnati, OH, to the late Sherman and Loretta Strayhorn. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, loving sister, cherished aunt, and faithful servant of God whose life reflected compassion, strength, and unwavering faith. As the devoted wife of Melvin Gault, she faithfully served alongside him during his years as a Deacon at the Church of Christ on Gray Road. Together, they labored in God’s kingdom, encouraging others through their service, hospitality, and steadfast commitment to the faith.

Faye attended Princeton High School, graduating with the Class of 1977. Following high school, she continued her education at Xavier University, earning an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration. Her educational accomplishments helped pre-pare her for a successful career and reflected the determination, perseverance, and work ethic that characterized her life.

Faye dedicated more than three decades of service to the United States Postal Service, where she built a reputation for excellence, discipline, and leadership. She supervised and mentored more than 30 employees and was later promoted to Contract Specialist in 2006, relocating to Memphis, Tennessee. In this role, she continued to demonstrate strong leadership and commitment until her health began to decline.

Beyond her career and faith, Faye had a joyful spirit and a love for life that was undeniable. She loved music, enjoyed dancing, and was an avid reader who could often be found immersed in a good book. She also enjoyed games and especially loved playing Scrabble, her favorite board game, where her love of words and friendly competition often shined through. Even as illness affected her memory, she never lost her ability to feel the rhythm or move with joy. Her laughter, kindness, and vibrant personality brought light into every room she entered and joy to every family gathering. Faye had a special way of making others feel welcome, loved, and appreciated, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Mario Strayhorn, and her parents, Sherman and Loretta Strayhorn. She leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted husband of 35 years, Melvin Gault; her cherished grandson, Jeremiah Brown; her mother-in-law, Jonnie Gault; her sisters, Celeste Strayhorn, Daphne Moore (David) of Upper Marlboro, MD, Sharon Johnson and Shirley Bell (Ray) of Toone, TN; sister-in-law, Gina Gault; her brothers, Sherman Strayhorn (Bridget) and Shannon Strayhorn; along with a host of cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends and her beloved church family.  

Final Tribute

As we celebrate the life and legacy of Yolanda Faye, we are reminded that her journey did not end here but continues in eternal glory. Having faithfully walked with God throughout her life, she has now ascended her Stairway to Heaven into the presence of her Lord and Savior, free from pain, sickness, and life’s disappointments.

Though we mourn her physical absence, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and find comfort knowing she is now at peace. Her life was a testimony of faith, strength, and love, and her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Until we meet again, we will cherish her memory, honor her example, and hold fast to God’s promise of eternal life.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant…enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Matthew 25:23

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