Lillian Yvonne Carteret Stegenga, lovingly known as Yvonne, passed away on October 19, 2026, in High Point, North Carolina, at the age of 80. Born on February 9, 1946, in Columbus County, North Carolina, Yvonne lived a life defined by compassion, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to her family and those she cared for.
Yvonne spent her early years in Rocky Mount, North Carolina and relocated to High Point, North Carolina, in 1960, where she would make her home for the remainder of her life. She dedicated her professional life to nursing, a calling that reflected her naturally caring spirit. Yvonne deeply valued the people entrusted to her care and was known for the genuine compassion she showed her patients. On multiple occasions, she was offered promotions throughout her career but chose to decline them, preferring to remain at the bedside, where she felt she could make the greatest difference in the lives of those who needed her most. For Yvonne, caring for others was more than a profession; it was a passion and a reflection of who she was.
Yvonne also shared her warmth and hospitality through her ownership of the Heart Friends Inn, a bed and breakfast in Siler City, North Carolina. The inn became well known for its wonderful breakfasts, lovingly prepared by Yvonne herself. Her cooking, attention to detail, and welcoming nature helped make guests feel at home, turning a stay at the Heart Friends Inn into a memorable experience.
Outside of her work, Yvonne enjoyed traveling, with Southport, North Carolina, holding a special place in her heart. She had a love for antiques and enjoyed shopping for and collecting unique pieces, amassing an extensive collection over the years. She also found happiness in spending time outdoors, tending to her yard and taking pride in its beauty. Yet, of all the things she enjoyed, nothing meant more to Yvonne than her family. She treasured time spent with her loved ones and expressed her love through the countless ways she cared for them. Her family was her greatest joy, and the love she gave so freely will remain a lasting part of their lives.
Yvonne will be remembered for her compassionate heart, her dedication to caring for others, her love of family, and the warmth she brought into the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Whether caring for a patient, preparing breakfast for a guest, tending to her home and yard, or simply spending time with those she loved, she had a special way of making others feel valued and cared for. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she shared and the memories she created will live on through the generations of family she leaves behind.
“We have strived to make Heartfriends Inn warm, welcoming and accommodating. We hope you will feel the specialness that friendship and a shared vision has created.”
— from the Inn's own history
If Heartfriends Inn was part of your story, as a guest, a neighbor or a friend, please visit Friends and Flowers to read what others remember and to share a memory of your own.