Cover photo for Lance Yarbrough's Obituary
Lance Yarbrough Profile Photo

Lance Yarbrough

February 7, 2004 — February 14, 2025

El Dorado

Lance Yarbrough

Lance Evan Yarbrough was born in El Dorado, AR, on February 7, 2004, and left this world on February 14, 2025, at 21, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, a contagious passion for life, and unbreakable strength.

Family: Lance was the grand finale in the #FavoredFour! He was the beloved youngest son of Larry D. and Shaneil "PJ" Yarbrough and the cherished little brother of Larry D. Yarbrough Jr. (LJ). The heartbeat of the Yarbrough home, Lance brought life and energy to the family. As a playful troublemaker and the most affectionate household member, he was known as Daddy's Lance Man, Mama's Boy, and LJ's Lil Bro. They will miss the many things that made him Lance, like running at full speed through the house and hurdling the recliner simply to enter the kitchen for a snack!

Faith: Lance confessed his faith at a young age under the guidance of his father and pastor, Larry D. He was a member of Changing Lives Ministries Church. He enjoyed attending church and was enthusiastically involved in the youth department. He loved serving in the media ministry! Lance understood the power of prayer. He often asked his parents to join him in prayer - including once for a hoverboard. His prayers were answered! He remained faithful in college and led a close friend to Jesus Christ. He lived his favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

A Champion: Lance began extracurricular activities at the Boys and Girls Club, playing basketball and All-Star baseball. He was a Peewee Football quarterback on a championship team and was named MVP. Lance also played on an AAU basketball team. He was in the band, took Advanced Placement classes, and participated in the Gifted and Talented Program. Later, he played more basketball and was on another championship junior high football team. Lance was in Journalism and wrote articles for the High School newspaper. He also served on the Steering Committee. His passion was Track and Field! He was part of history, a State Sweep, becoming 5A State Champions. Lance was particularly proud that he and his 4x400 teammates never lost a race! He represented the Track Cats and competed in the state-wide Decathlon.

College Life: Lance graduated from El Dorado High School in 2022, receiving tuition through the El Dorado Promise. He also received multiple scholarships. Though he had a chance to run track, his passion for creativity led him to the University of Arkansas. Initially, he majored in Apparel and Product Merchandising but later switched to English, Creative Writing. He maintained an impressive 3.6 GPA. Lance joined the Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc. Iota Tau Chapter fraternity, where he embodied the motto: "Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor." He lovingly embraced the brotherhood and bonded with his 12 Line Brothers. He engaged in intramural sports and various activities. Lance dedicated his final summer to an internship at Your Grandpa's Vintage and another retail position, gaining invaluable experience in the fashion industry.

Loving Life: Lance enjoyed reading, writing, fishing, puppies, thrifting, and fashion-his shoe game was unmatched! His Instagram handle, "Steezy," reflected his mantra: "Style with Ease." Lance loved fiercely! He valued close-knit friendships. Lance was the life of every gathering-fun, energetic, and fearless-always ready for an adventure. You could count on backflips, dancing, goofy faces, and belly laughs. He approached life with enthusiasm and a radiant spirit. Friends refer to him as a counselor/advisor who made time for everyone, their favorite person, a pure soul, and "THE FLYEST NUPE TO EVER DO IT." He was an exemplary model of joy and a uniquely wonderful friend.

In July 2024, just before starting his junior year, Lance was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer called Rhabdomyosarcoma. He faced this battle with unwavering courage, refusing to let his illness define him. His strength and determination shone through at every step of his journey; he never complained, and his faith remained unshaken. As Isaiah 53:5 reminds us, "By His stripes, Lance is healed." His family described him as the strongest person they know and a precious gift whose resilience inspired everyone around him.

He was deeply loved and will be missed by everyone who knew him. We know with full confidence that Lance ran "fast as lighting" into heaven, "backflipped," and reunited with his deceased grandparents, Andrew and Ernestine Curley and Charley Roy Nichols.

Lance leaves behind cherished memories for his parents, Larry D. Yarbrough, Sr., and Shaneil "PJ" Yarbrough, as well as his brother, Larry D. Yarbrough, Jr. (L.J.). He is also remembered by his paternal grandparents, Larry W. and Jessie Yarbrough; his maternal grandmother, Marsheill Finley; and his spiritual grandparents, Alphonso and Monique Montgomery. Lance is survived by his four aunts: Latosha, LaTreace, Ashley, and Jessica; his bonus aunt, Jamie Benton-Davis; his uncle, Mario (Kadesha); and his bonus uncle, Eric Flowers. He had many cousins, including first cousins O'Shea, Ricky, Jamia, Lenitia, Matthew, Kelyn, Jordyn, Joel, Kingston, Jaslyn, Devyn, and Ashtyn. Additionally, his godparents, Corey and Teresa Robinson, along with several godsiblings, will honor his memory. Lance shared an unbreakable bond with a circle of friends whom he considered brothers: David Aryee, Kamron Bibby, and Mario Buffert, as well as another close friend, Victoria Cornejo. He will also be remembered fondly by his church family at Changing Lives Ministries Church.

For those who wish to honor Lance's spirit and passion with a gift, an account has been established at First Financial Bank. Donations will be used to provide academic scholarships and support for 20 to 25 year old young adults diagnosed with cancer. Please send your donations directly to First Financial Bank and include "Team Lance" in the memo line.

Though Lance's time with us was far too short, his impact will be felt forever. He will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. We find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, forever wrapped in God's love. Rest well, Lance. Your lifelong testimony of being an angel on earth will never fade. Let's all "Love and Live Like Lance!"


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Today's Services

Public Viewing

Saturday, February 22, 2025

2:15 - 5:00 pm (Central time)

Changing Life Ministries

1707 N College, El Dorado, AR 71730

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Celebration of Life

Sunday, February 23, 2025

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El Dorado High School Arena

2000 Wildcat Dr., El Dorado, AR 71730

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