Yo Was Her Name, Yellow Roses Her Joy
A Glimpse into the Life of Yolande Annie Biver
If you grew up in the 35th Street house, you knew it by the sound of 10 kids playing and the quiet strength of a woman named Yolande Annie Biver — or just “Yo” to those who loved her.
Born in Phoebus, Virginia, on August 26, 1933, Yolande was the daughter of French immigrants who built their American dreams on grit and grace. She grew up with sisters, laughter, and a little mischief, eventually joining the Future Homemakers of America and graduating from Hampton High.
At just 18 years old, she married Louis Miller in Indianapolis. Together, they raised ten children in a tiny three-bedroom house — a space bursting with bunk beds, old school lockers, sibling scuffles, and fierce love. Even after Louis left the home but continued to support the family financially, Yo never once abandoned her values. As a devout Catholic, she remained faithful to her vows — and to her role as a mother, grandmother, and quiet matriarch.
She was strict, but she loved purely and deeply. She favored yellow roses, and if you were lucky enough to get a glimpse of her rare smile, you’d remember it for a lifetime.
When she passed away on February 28, 2009, she left behind ten children, 25 grandchildren, and 45 great-grandchildren. Her impact echoes not just in names and dates — but in values passed down, stories still told, and the sacred memory of her gentle fire.
🕊 Visit Yolande’s Full Family Page
Want to see more photos, records, and details from Yolande’s life?
👉 Click here to visit her Family Page
💬 Share a Memory
Did you know Yolande?
Do you remember her voice, her laugh, or her yellow roses?
Drop a memory in the comments — your story could help keep hers alive for future generations. 💛
2 Comments
I grew up down the street from Yo, Louis and the kids and eventually married into the family. She was my mother-in-law for several years but will remain “ma” forever. Her tough persona covered a heart of gold. Her family was her everything. She raised 10 kids that also value family. When 1 needs, all come. I was able to talk with her about anything and valued her advice. She taught me so many things cooking, canning, crafting, and so much more. I admired this woman more than she knew. I felt loved by her and I loved her.
Thank you so much for contributing to her story! I remember major holidays at her house, including Christmas, when I got a Lite Brite as a gift. Financially speaking, she wasn’t wealthy by any means, but she always seemed to buy the perfect gifts for the kids and grandchildren and somehow managed to feed such a big family!