Memorial services for Yuriko Wakasaki Vestal, 88 of Lufkin will be held Friday, June 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Bald Hill Church of Christ, 9187 FM 326, Lufkin, TX 75901, with Philip Snead officiating.
Yuriko Wakasaki Vestal, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in Lufkin,Texas, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born in Hiroshima-ken, Japan, on January 4, 1937, Yuriko journeyed to the United States over 60 years ago, bringing with her a quiet strength and a heart full of love. She made Texas her home, where she built a life rooted in hard work, compassion, and an unwavering devotion to her family.
Her commitment to her family was unmatched—her love was fierce, enduring, and filled with grace. She poured her heart into everything she did, whether it was preparing meals, offering a warm hug, or sharing words of wisdom with her loved ones.
Yuriko dedicated 15 years of her life as a cafeteria worker for Lufkin ISD, where she took pride in serving students each day. After retiring, she remained devoted to her community by volunteering as a foster grandparent in the same school district, embracing the opportunity to help guide young children as they began their educational journey, an honor she considered a true privilege. She deeply cherished her time with the children and found great joy in giving back to the community she proudly called home.
Yuriko’s legacy is one of quiet strength, deep compassion, and boundless love.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Yoko Wakasaki and Tada (Shintano) Wakasaki; her daughter, Penny Vestal; and her dearest lifelong friends, J.A. and Winnie Bryan.
She is survived by her loving children, Bobby Vestal of Lufkin, TX, and Pamela Romer of California; her grandchildren, Jennifer Ogden of Lufkin, TX, James (Jimmy) and Laura Romer, Dustin Romer, and Brian and Crystal Edgar, all of California, Jeremiah Gavette of Lufkin, TX, and Miranda Saucedo of Brooklyn, New York; and her great-grandchildren, Colton Ogden, Lillian Romer, James Romer, and Amelia Edgar.
Snead Linton Funeral Home; directors.
