Virginia lost a cherished figure on July 1, 2025, with the passing of Anne Leighton Yeatts, a beloved basketball coach, avid golfer, and devoted partner.
Anne, who was 79 years old, left behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and inspiration that touched countless lives in Altavista and Gainesville, Virginia.
While the cause of her death has not been disclosed, Anne had been living with dementia for many years, a challenge she faced with grace alongside her devoted partner, Alice Peretti.
Born in February 1946 to Elizabeth and Arnett L. Yeatts in Altavista, Virginia, Anne grew up in a close-knit family with her two sisters, Carolyn and Margaret.
Her early years were filled with the warmth of small-town life, where she attended Altavista High School before pursuing higher education at Radford University.
These formative years shaped Anne into a woman of strong determination, qualities that would define her remarkable career and personal life.
Anne Yeatts Was A Mentor Who Inspired Young Athletes To Push Their Limits
For 13 years, she led the Osbourn High School girls’ basketball team in Manassas, Virginia, with a fierce yet compassionate style.
Under her leadership, the Eagles soared to the 1992 AA state semifinals, a testament to her ability to build a winning program.
Anne’s coaching wasn’t just about strategy; it was about teaching life lessons.
Her players remember her booming voice echoing through the gym, urging them to “get back on defense,” “rebound,” and “box out!”
Her tough love was balanced by kindness and understanding, making her a role model for navigating challenges both on and off the court.
In 1996, Anne stepped down from her coaching role at Osbourn to pursue a career in sports administration, a move that allowed her to continue shaping young lives.
She later returned to coaching at a Manassas school, where her passion for mentoring students never wavered.
An avid golfer, she found joy on the fairways, where her competitive spirit and love for life shone brightly.
She was also a gifted cook, a talented singer, and a beloved aunt, as her niece Beth Coleman Fisher fondly recalled:
“Heaven gained a wonderful aunt/sister/friend this week with the passing of my aunt, Anne Leighton Yeatts. She was kind, smart, a cooking genius, an awesome coach, an avid golfer, singer, beloved friend, and the best aunt. We will miss her.”
Via Facebook
Anne’s warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
Her sister Carolyn described her as someone who “loved everyone,” with a “beauty, charm, generosity, and love of life” that made her truly special.
These qualities endeared her to her community, creating bonds that endured through the years.
Anne shared her life with her partner, Alice Peretti, in Gainesville, Virginia.
Their love was a cornerstone of Anne’s life, especially during her battle with dementia.
In 2016, Anne’s condition led to a frightening moment when she went missing while driving to the grocery store.
Thankfully, she was found safe, a moment that highlighted the care and vigilance of those around her.
Alice’s dedication to Anne was unwavering, particularly in her final years.
In a heartfelt announcement of Anne’s passing, Alice wrote,
Carolyn praised Alice’s devotion, noting,
” Alice, as you have cared for her for many years and have loved her a long, long time. Your dedication and care you gave her these past few years has earned you many stars in your crown. Much love!”
Via Facebook
Anne Yeatts’s Death Led Many People To Share Their Love And Memories Of Her
Yeatts had a positive impact on their lives.
Heidi Elkins, a former player, shared,
“She was one of a kind and had such a huge impact on my life, especially navigating those challenging HS years. So grateful to have had her as a mentor and Coach through life. Sending big hugs your way, Ali.”
Via Facebook
Another former player, Katie Sinback, posted a heartfelt tribute alongside an old photo, reflecting on Anne’s influence:
“She modeled strength, toughness, kindness, and understanding… I was lucky to play under her, lucky to be her student, and lucky to have learned what it means to navigate a sexist, homophobic environment with grace while not compromising integrity”
Via Facebook
These tributes show a woman who was not only a coach but a guiding light for young women.
Anne’s ability to lead with integrity and compassion left an indelible mark on her players, many of whom carried her lessons into adulthood.
Anne Leighton Yeatts was preceded in death by her parents, Elizabeth and Arnett, but her memory lives on through her sisters, Carolyn and Margaret, her partner Alice, and the countless individuals she inspired.
As Virginia mourns the loss of this extraordinary woman, her life reminds us of the power of connection and the enduring impact of a coach who, in every sense, was a champion.
Rest in peace, Coach Yeatts.
