Octavia "Tavie" Diamond Yuker, age 79, passed away peacefully at home in Melbourne, Florida, on October 2, 2026, at 7:25 a.m., surrounded by the love of family and the memories of a life well lived.

Born on April 5, 1947, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late Ervin and Lois Wamback, Octavia embodied the strength, beauty, and resilience reflected in her unique middle name. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was defined by faith, service, hard work, and unconditional love.

More than any accomplishment, Octavia was proudest of her family. She was the devoted mother of Lynette (Joe) Pirich, Duane (Alecia) Strobel, Mark (Martha) Strobel, and Dana Stewart, each of whom was blessed by her unwavering love, wisdom, and support. Her children were the center of her world, and nothing brought her greater joy than watching her family grow through the generations.

Octavia leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that spans four generations, including her beloved 8 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and countless extended family members whose lives have been shaped by her endless love, guidance, generosity, and strength.

Octavia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Albert Yuker; her brothers, Jim Wamback, Casimir Wamback, and Toby Wamback; and her grandson, Noah Pirich. She is survived by her brother, Cal (Sharon) Wamback, her sister, Patricia (Randy) Doyka, and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Octavia spent 25 years with General Motors before retiring. In retirement, she enjoyed spending time in Alpena, Michigan, helping operate a family campground and embracing the outdoors she loved so much, especially hunting and enjoying nature.

For more than 30 years, Octavia was a devoted advocate and servant to the deaf community. She faithfully interpreted church services at Peace Lutheran Church, was a long time member of the Tri-City Association of the Deaf and helped establish the V.O.I.C.E. organization, dedicating countless hours to ensuring others felt seen, heard, and included. Helping people was not simply something she did; it was the foundation of who she was. Her home was always open to anyone in need of a warm meal, a place to stay, or a listening ear.

While her family mourns her passing, they find peace in knowing she has been reunited with loved ones who went before her and is being welcomed at Heaven's gates by her faithful companion, Patches.

Octavia Diamond Yuker truly lived up to her remarkable name, resilient, precious, and unforgettable. Her legacy of faith, family, service, and love will live on for generations to come.

A funeral service celebrating Octavia's life will be held at 12:00 pm on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd, Saginaw, MI 48603. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens. Friends may visit the family from 11:00 am until the time of service on Saturday at the funeral chapel. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Tri-City Association of the Deaf, 3520 Schust Rd, Saginaw, MI 48603.

Her family takes comfort in knowing that the love she gave so freely remains with them always. ❤️