Sheila Yarbrough

Sheila Drake Yarbrough, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Wednesday. Born in Athens, Alabama, Sheila was the daughter of the late Cleveland and Elizabeth Drake. She made Athens, Tennessee her home in 1984 and remained a proud part of the community for the rest of her life.

Sheila was preceded in death by her parents; her two brothers, Brent Drake and Kenneth “Kemp” Drake; and her beloved husband, Lynn “Birdie” Yarbrough. She is survived by her loving children, Shelly Thomas (Danny) and Todd Appleton (Holly), as well as her step-son, Bruce Yarbrough (Renee). Sheila’s memory lives on through her cherished grandchildren: Nicole Swafford, Braeden Morgan, Greysun Appleton, Brody Morgan, Dexter Yarbrough, Shelby Smith (Anthony), Anna Jaye (A.J.) Vincent, Avery Vincent, Kayleigh Thomas, and Braxtyn Thomas. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Brett “Shoog” Swafford, Lillian and Scarlett Smith, Jude Yarbrough, and Harrison Avery Thomas.Sheila leaves behind three devoted sisters: Frances Browning, Faye Bobo (J.K.), and Amy Beaver - along with many nieces and nephews whom she loved deeply and held close to her heart.

A licensed cosmetologist for over 30 years, Sheila had a gift for making others feel beautiful. She expressed her creativity through many passions, including painting, decorating, gardening, and fashion. A true collector at heart, she loved thrifting and gathering treasures like rabbits, vintage dishes, quilts, and other antiques. She had a green thumb, and her yard was a reflection of her love for flowers and nature—so beautiful that her neighbors would often take pictures of her blooms. Sheila enjoyed reading, listening to music, and traveling—but nothing brought her more joy than time spent with her family and friends. Her love for animals ran deep, and she often spoke fondly of her late pets: Raleigh, Daisy May, and Annabelle. 

Sheila’s funeral will be held at Companion Funeral Home (400 S. White Street, Athens, TN) on Sunday, July 27. The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. with the funeral service beginning at 4 p.m. Burial will immediately follow at Etowah Community Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers are Braeden Morgan, Greysun Appleton, Brody Morgan, Braxtyn Thomas, Brandon Swafford, and Brett Swafford.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at Starr Regional Medical Center and NHC Healthcare for the excellent care and compassion shown to Sheila during her time there.

Sheila’s warmth, creativity, and love for life will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

You are encouraged to share a memory of Sheila and/or your personal condolences with her family by visiting her memorial webpage and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral & Cremation Service of Athens, TN, and the Cody family are honored to assist her family with these arrangements.