Lavonia Bell Link age 97 of Melrose

Mrs. Lavonia Belle Yarbrough Link, age 97, of Melrose, Florida, passed away on August 31, 2026. She was born on April 6, 1929, in Palatka, Florida, to Raymond and Della Dickerson Griffis. Lavonia attended Eliam Baptist Church and worked for BellSouth Telephone Company as an operator before devoting much of her life to caring for children throughout the Melrose community. She enjoyed bowling, working in her yard, spending time with family, and cheering for her beloved Florida Gators. Her infectious sense of humor, warm personality, and charming flirtation left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Elmo Yarbrough and Richard Link; her grandchildren, Daniel Seypura, Jessie Yarbrough, and Austin Yarbrough; and her siblings, Gussie Hardee, Charles Griffis, Everett Griffis, O.W. Griffis, Vernon Griffis, and Roy Griffis. She is survived by her daughter, Maria (Teddy) Seypura; her son, Clifford Yarbrough; and her brothers, Robert "Bobby" Griffis and Franklin Griffis.

Lovingly known as "Granny Grape" by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren, Dale (Sally) Yarbrough and their children, Danielle and Hunter Yarbrough; Derrick Yarbrough and his children, Bailey (Zachary) Hilliard and Kelly Yarbrough, and grandchildren Wynston and Walker Hilliard; Elise (Daniel) McNew and their children, Myles and Maryn; and Clifford's stepson, Randy Everett. Maria and Teddy's family includes Linda (John) Power and their children, Jordan Shepherd and Dr. Sarah Power, and Erica (Barry) Pepper and their children, Owen and Brilyn Pepper.

Lavonia treasured her family, and they adored her immensely. Her humor, warmth, and love will live on through the many generations of family she leaves behind. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will miss her dearly. 

A viewing for Mrs. Link will be held on September 4 at 10:00 AM in the Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home Chapel. A graveside service will follow at 11:00 AM at Eliam Cemetery. 

Arrangements are under the care of JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 340 E. WALKER DR. KEYSTONE HEIGHTS, FL 32656. 352-473-3176.www.jonesgallagherfh.com