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Former Lexington Vice Mayor Isabel Yates Passes Away at 100

A serene park, a lasting symbol of community spirit in Lexington.

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News Summary

Isabel Yates, a distinguished former vice mayor of Lexington, has passed away at the age of 100. Celebrated for her community contributions, Yates’s legacy includes significant projects like the transformation of McConnell Springs and revitalizing the local cultural scene. Her commitment to service and leadership inspired many, making her a beloved figure in Lexington’s history. A memorial service will be held on March 4, honoring her remarkable life devoted to public service.

Former Lexington Vice Mayor Isabel Yates Passes Away at 100

It is with great sadness that we share the news of Isabel Yates, a beloved figure in Lexington, who passed away on February 26, 2025, at the remarkable age of 100. Hailing from South Carolina, Isabel was lovingly referred to as the “first lady of all things Lexington” by former Mayor Jim Gray and was known for her incredible contributions to the community.

Mayor Linda Gorton fondly remembered Isabel as “an amazing force for good,” highlighting her significant impact throughout the years. Isabel was born into a family with a strong commitment to service; her father was a doctor who practiced medicine in Winnsboro, S.C., until he was 95 and lived to be 103 years old. This zest for life and dedication to community service clearly ran in the family.

Isabel pursued her education vigorously, earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina, where she also held a leadership role as the president of her chapter of the Kappa Delta sorority. She would later go on to obtain a master’s degree in English from Ohio State University. In 1963, she and her husband, Eugene Wilson Yates, made their way to Lexington, where her journey of community involvement truly began. Eugene was an executive and attorney with Kentucky Central Life Insurance, and together, they made a strong impact on the community.

Throughout her life, Isabel was tirelessly engaged in charity work. She lent her time and skills to various organizations, including the Tates Creek PTA and Junior Achievement. Her political career took off when she was elected to the Lexington Fayette-Urban County Council in 1991 at the age of 66, paving the way for her groundbreaking role as Lexington’s first female vice mayor in 1998.

One of her standout achievements was initiating a fundraising campaign in 1993 that successfully transformed an illegal dumping ground into the beautiful McConnell Springs, a cherished green space in Lexington. This initiative earned her the endearing nickname of “Stormwater Queen” during the 1990s because of her focus on stormwater management and runoff issues.

Isabel has also been instrumental in revitalizing Lexington’s cultural scene. She helped raise over $615,000 for the refurbishment of the Kentucky Theatre and was a founding member of the Friends of the Kentucky Theatre established in 2012. Another one of her unforgettable contributions to Lexington was the public art project, Horse Mania, which brought together the community in 2000 and 2010, adding a vibrant touch to the city’s art scene.

Upon retiring from the council in December 2011, Isabel was celebrated for her long-lasting contributions. Supporters proudly waved blue, orange, and gold flags representing various organizations she had served over the years. She was lovingly referred to as a “steel magnolia” by her peers, admired for her ability to listen and connect with others.

Even after stepping away from her political roles, Isabel continued to lead an active lifestyle, attending exercise classes regularly. At the remarkable age of 95, she actively participated in a protest advocating against tree-cutting practices in her neighborhood, showcasing her unwavering commitment to Lexington.

As she celebrated her 100th birthday on October 1, 2024, sharing this milestone with former President Jimmy Carter, Isabel’s legacy was firmly cemented. She leaves behind her loving family, including one sister, her children: Gene Yates, Isabel “Mackie” Hempel, Carolyn Y. Cunningham, and Elliott “Glenn” Yates, along with eight cherished grandchildren.

For those wishing to pay their respects, a funeral service will take place at Christ Church Cathedral on March 4, 2025, at 2 PM, with visitation scheduled for March 3, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the same location. Following the service, a private inurnment will be held at Lexington Cemetery. In Isabel’s honor, memorial donations may be made to Friends of McConnell Springs or Christ Church Cathedral, contributing to the causes she held close to her heart.