Sarah Yancey Obituary

Almost 15 years ago, Sarah was my roommate during an AFS orientation. As a new volunteer Sarah gave me the overview and best practices. Anytime I needed tips and strategies of working with schools, I would give Sarah a call. She will be surely missed, but her legacy lives in many of us.

Sarah and I were friends practically from infancy. We lost touch when she headed to college. She always held a special spot in my heart.

Sarah was a mentor to many but a role model to all. She was the GOLD STANDARD.

Because of AFS, we knew Sarah and Bob. What a generous person. AFS Michigan

Amy, Burt and your families,
AFS Missouri Gateway Team,

I am saddened to hear of Sarah's passing. I didn't have the opportunity to work closely with Sarah but had met her a few times over the years at AFS national events. To me she is the epitome of a superstar AFS volunteer. Her heart for cultural exchange and making such a difference in students' lives both from the US and abroad will never be forgotten. She will be missed greatly by all. You are all in my thoughts at this time.

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I am very very sorry to learn of Sarah's passing away. (I was in high school class with her).

Dear Amy, as I met your mom and dad for our travelling-month to your University I was instant a member of the family what I appreciated enormous. I cherish all our memories and love. I wish you my deepest condolences. Tom

Sarah´s kind heart, smart brain and selflessness has always been a beacon of love, understanding, change and hope through her AFS work. She has inspired many throughout the world and her legacy lives on within so many!

Sarah was an inspiration and a valued voice of wisdom and guidance to all of us on the Sponsored Programs team at AFS-USA. As Chair of the Sponsored Programs Advisory Group, Sarah was an outspoken advocate and champion of our work. I am personally deeply saddened by this news and know that I join so many others across the globe in feeling this tremendous loss. The impact of Sarah´s volunteer work with AFS will endure. Sending so much love to her family and those close to her.
With love and gratitude,
Patti Davis, former Director of Inbound Sponsored Programs, AFS-USA

Sarah had a tremendous impact on so many of us exchange students. She was one of the main coordinators, especially at Parkway South High were she was an assistant principal. It took me a while to connect with her. She's is like a tough cookie on the outside, until you discover the sweet creamy filling.

I was an AFS exchange student (from Austrian) at Parkway South in 2003/04, and stayed with the wonderful Hochstetler-Finan family. (My host parents are visiting me in Belgium at this very moment!)

I am sending an image as well. It's of a Christmas ornament that is sitting in my room, it's a long story why it's sitting there months before Christmas... BUT I held it in my hands a day before I learned of her passing. I find that interesting.

Your won't be forgotten, dear Sarah! I hope you're in a wonderful place now and get to enjoy it to the fullest! Sending lots of love from down here. xxx Lara

Sarah has been a beacon of light to so many volunteers and staff at AFS-USA. She has made a difference in the lives of 100s of AFS students and host families. She will be missed but always appreciated and remembered. Tara Hofmann, President AFS-USA

I am so sorry to hear this news. Sarah helped my daughter Liz at Parkway South in 2005. She is a big part of why, she is now an Assisant Dean of Admission at a University. She understood Liz's potental when others did not not. Liz said, Mrs Yancey always believed in me !!! The O'Sullivans are sad today! Sincerely Jill O'Sullivan

Amy & Burt, I am so sorry for your loss. Though many years have passed, I remember your mom vividly as one of the smartest, kindest and most effective teachers I´ve ever known. I pray for peace and comfort for your family. Very sincere condolences.
Susan (Barnes) Jakoby