Yvonne Marie Martin, a longtime Downey resident, passed away at her residence on April 18, 2014, surrounded by her family. She was 65. She was born on October 23, 1948 in Lebanon, Indiana. At age 8, she & her family moved to the San Fernando Valley, where she graduated from John H. Francis Polytechnic. Yvonne then attended Paul Mitchell School, obtaining her California Barbering & Cosmetology license. For the next 25 years she worked in many high-end salons, eventually opening her own. During the 1970’s, she relocated to the Big Island of Hawai’i, where she worked as a lead hair stylist.

She moved to Downey in 1991. Yvonne had struggled with addiction in her life, but got clean, turned her life around & at age 40, returned to school & graduating Cum Laude with her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. She used this education in her new career as a Program Director for Southern California Alcohol & Drug Programs, Inc. in Downey for the next 20 years. She also worked as an Adjunct Instructor for the East Los Angeles Community College Psychology Department.

She was very involved in the Downey Council PTA throughout her daughters schooling, eventually becoming president & volunteered her time for countless programs & communities. Yvonne loved the beach, which was apparent from her year-round tan, & was an avid reader, always carrying a book in hand.

Yvonne is survived by her Husband, Greg Martin; Daughter, Kara Martin; Son, Markes Lucius; Granddaughter, Madeliene Lucius; Sister, Peggy Del Grande; along with Nieces & Nephews.

She has been cremated & her wishes were to return to the place she loved most, the island of Hawai’i.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 7, at 11 AM at her home church: Downey First Christian Church.

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Published: May 29, 2014 - Volume 13 - Issue 07