Martin Park Remembers Beloved P.E. Teacher

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Students and staff at Martin Park Elementary School are remembering one of their own, a longtime teacher who lost her battle with cancer over the weekend.

News Channel Five's Brooke Buford has the story of Yvonne Green and the school community that's celebrating her life.

"Sad. I told my parents about it last night. My dad was hurt and I was hurt," said Jalen Hayes, a 5th grader.

Although she retired two years ago from her job as P.E. teacher, Yvonne Green is still present here and on the minds of her former students and co-workers at Martin Park Elementary.

"With people like Ms. Green, who has such a great personality," said Wayne Jowers, principal. "You just love them to death. You can depend on them when you need them. We miss her very much."

Two years ago, Ms. Green was diagnosed with bone cancer even then, she still came to work here - her determined spirit shining through.

"She was alright with that. They told her that and she was okay with that. She still possessed a smile and she was always positive," said Anita Hayes, a fellow teacher.

"Her words to me passing in the school hallway was, I'm putting one foot in front of the other," said Susan Brook, another teacher. "I'm just trying to make it Ms. Brook."

Although Ms. Green passed away Sunday, her positive spirit that she left here, lives on.

"Ms. Green, she was an amazing teacher," said Kennedy Perry, a 5th grader. "I loved her so much."

Yvonne Green's wake is set for Thursday, Jan. 26 from 4-7 p.m. at St. James United Peoples Church in Pineville. Her funeral is Friday, Jan. 27 at noon at St. Matthew's Baptist Rapides Station. Burial will be at Forest Lawn.