Yelanda R`ena Thodoroff

April 18, 1955 – June 22, 2026 Yelanda Thodoroff, age 71, of Burton, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on June 22, 2026, following a courageous battle with liver cancer. She was surrounded by the love of her family, with her daughter Nicole and grandson Matthew-Wayne by her side. Yelanda was born on April 18, 1955, in Mercer County, West Virginia, to the late Bill James Hamm and Lora Alice Thorn Hamm. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Kimberly Ann Knuckles. Yelanda dedicated her life to caring for others. She owned and operated an adult foster care home, where she provided compassion, support, and dignity to those entrusted to her care. Her kindness extended far beyond her profession. She believed everyone deserved a chance and was always willing to help those who were less fortunate. Her caring heart, generous spirit, and willingness to see the good in others touched countless lives throughout the years. Family was the center of Yelanda’s life. She is survived by her children, Jon (Carrie) Thodoroff of Beal City, Michigan; Matthew Thodoroff of Montrose, Michigan; and Nicole Thodoroff of Flint, Michigan. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Annabelle Réna Thodoroff, age 8; Adalee Rose Thodoroff, age 1; Lorelai Lee Thodoroff, age 2; and Matthew-Wayne Richard Macauley, age 10. Her grandchildren brought her endless joy, and she cherished every opportunity to spend time with them. Yelanda is also survived by her half-brother, Bobby Shuck of West Virginia; her nephew, Hunter Lee Hamm of Princeton, West Virginia; Matthew’s longtime companion, Chelsea Edwards; and many extended family members and dear friends. She enjoyed camping at Harrisville State Park and treasured the years she spent living near Higgins Lake, where she loved taking her grandchildren to enjoy the beauty of Northern Michigan and create lasting memories together. Yelanda shared three children and many years of memories with Richard Thodoroff. Those who knew Yelanda will remember her for her compassion, acceptance, and unwavering willingness to help others. She opened her heart to people from all walks of life and never hesitated to offer support, encouragement, or a second chance. Her legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and love. In accordance with her wishes, Yelanda will be cremated. A private family memorial, including a butterfly release in celebration of her life, will be held at a later date. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the hospice caregivers who provided comfort, care, and support during Yelanda’s final days. Yelanda will be remembered not only for the life she lived, but for the kindness she shared. She believed in people, offered second chances, and never hesitated to help someone in need. Her love and generosity will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched along the way. Yelanda’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Yelanda R`ena Thodoroff

April 18, 1955 - June 22, 2026