THERE’S NO better remedy for the soul than the profound connection of friendship love, known as “philia” in Greek. In 2002, a close-knit group of friends embarked on a journey inspired by the film “Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood.” Little did they know this venture would create a lifelong bond that thrived for over two decades. From holiday dinners to impromptu adventures, this group, known affectionately as the “Ya-Ya Sisters,” has become a safe space for women of all ages.
Yvonne Stewart, lovingly referred to as the “queen,” recalls that special moment; “Me and 13 of my friends were going out for a Christmas holiday dinner at High Point Restaurant in Monteagle. I decided to add some fun to the evening. I created princess names and purchased crowns for each friend. That night at dinner, I talked about our friendship and how we related to the women in the movie, “Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood,” crowning each friend and bestowing them with a whimsical title (a Ya-Ya name) that each one had ‘earned’ throughout our years of friendship, based on shared memories and personality quirks.”
Thus, the Ya-Ya Sisterhood was christened.
Their gatherings, a fusion of camaraderie, celebration, and support, soon became a cherished tradition. Each member carries their title like a badge of honor. New additions to the group are apprentices, lovingly called “YITS” or “Ya-Yas in Training,” and must earn their names to be crowned as official Ya-Ya members.
As the group expanded, so did their eclectic mix of backgrounds and professions. Homemakers, professionals, and working women came together, drawn by the magnetic pull of this extraordinary sisterhood. The Ya-Yas find strength in their diversity, celebrating the goodness in each individual.
“What do the Ya-Yas do?” It’s a question often asked. The answer, delivered with a sparkle in their eyes, is simple yet profound: “We eat, drink, and be merry.”
With laughter as their compass and music as their anthem, the Ya-Yas take on adventures, filling customized vans for concerts.
Their eclectic tastes span from Tennessee football to rock ‘n’ roll legends like Lynyrd Skynyrd. With Jeannie Bates as the designated driver, they pile into a customized van and head out for unforgettable concert experiences. Jeannie might have been more suited for driving a shopping cart, given her knack for exploring every souvenir shop when they travel.
Whether dressing up as trashy women for a birthday celebration or donning their best cocktail attire, these women know how to throw a good old-fashioned theme party. Halloween, St. Patrick’s Day, Mardi Gras — you name it, and they’ve got the outfits and enthusiasm to match.
But it’s not always festive; the Ya-Yas stand together through life’s highs and lows. When storms arise, they’re each other’s shelter.
In 2006, they faced the profound loss of their first sister, Pat Zimmerman.
Theresa Tucker, another member, said, “During the recent loss of one of our Ya-Ya Sisters, Patty Fandrich, there was never any concern for who would provide lunch for her loved ones after the service. While sharing lunch and celebrating her incredible life with her family, I realized our deep love and support for our Ya-Ya Sisters goes far beyond ourselves and extends to our spouses, children, and grandchildren. Our Ya-Ya group is more than inducted sisters. It’s a bonus family.”
Through decades of shared experiences, they’ve weathered storms, celebrated triumphs, and consoled each other through sorrows. From births to divorces, they’re a chosen family, always ready to gather around like a protective flock.
One member, Janie Woodall, shared a touching sentiment about the love and support she received from her cherished sisterhood: “When my sons passed away, Ya-Yas gathered around me like a flock of birds. I felt like a baby bird in a nest. And they were protecting me. The worst had already happened, but having a support group lifted me up.”
Their extended family includes mothers, aunts, and grandmothers as generations intertwine, creating a legacy of sisterhood.
“Some of our mothers have been gone for many years, and others in more recent years. Yvonne’s mom and Ms. Carlene have inspired me since I was inducted into the Ya-Yas. It has always been a pleasure and comfort to have them present in this part of our lives,” said Tucker.
Their unconditional support provides a safety net of love and empathy.
Take a moment to reflect on the people who hold you up, support you through life’s challenges, and share in your moments of joy. In the end, it’s these lifelong bonds of friendship and love that make life truly spectacular. The Ya-Ya Sisters prove that the bonds we forge can enrich our lives in ways we never imagined. GN
