Amy Marie Yates Tortorella

October 10, 1976 - February 24, 2019

Obituary For Amy Marie Yates Tortorella

On February 24, 2019, the world lost a beautiful soul who radiated love and light to those privileged to have crossed her path ~ Amy Marie Yates Tortorella.

Amy was born on October 10, 1976, to Mr. and Mrs. William Stanley Yates and Marie Yates. Amy was loved dearly by her parents, and was always her Daddy’s “baby girl.” She was also little sister to her brother, Stanley Yates, Jr. (and wife, Laura Yates) as well as a loving aunt to her cherished niece, Caroline.

Amy found the love of her life, Ian Tortorella, twenty three years ago in Myrtle Beach. Amy and Ian epitomize the notion of loving and living life to the fullest. Their marriage was full of travels, laughs, great conversations and a deep, true love. They shared a thirst for adventure and sharing life with lots of fur babies. Amy’s love of animals was apparent as she was a fierce advocate for rescue animals. Amy will be sorely missed by her dogs Evie and Olive and cats Penny and Nico.

As a realtor Amy helped thousands of people find their dream homes in the Triangle; however, her real passion and ability to connect to people was through practicing and guiding yoga. She embraced every moment of teaching, weaving life lessons into physical practice with care, consideration and skill. Her ability to reach people on a soul level is why she had such a following join her in practice for a spiritual awakening.

Amy embodied the true spirit of goodness in everything and everyone that she encountered. She loved without conditions and protected those around her using her whole heart. Amy was an activist for rescue animals, social justice and a believer in protecting every living creature as a commitment to the Earth to preserve our connectedness to all living things. With a contagious smile, a giving spirit and infectious laugh, she created a space for love and healing with open arms because it represented everything she stood for in her life. Amy was curious and interested in other cultures, and sought travel, adventure and experiences with people from all over the world.

These things will be missed as she continues to be a source of beauty and strength to her friends, family and yoga community. Amy lived life on her terms and valued authenticity. Amy’s spirit and energy shall remain imprinted on us as a light that cannot dim or be extinguished in any lifetime.

A service for Amy will be held at 3:00 pm Sunday, March 3, 2019 at All Saints Chapel Raleigh. https://www.allsaints1875.com/

A celebration of life will follow at 6:00 to 10:00 pm at the Bridge Club 2nd floor https://ac-restaurants.com/bridge-club

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Beyond Fences, an organization Amy loved and supported. (www.beyondfences.org)

Ian especially wants to thank everyone for the incredible outpouring of love and support throughout this journey with Amy, who felt the embrace, prayers and love of each and every one of you.

Services

3 Mar

Memorial Service

03:00 PM

All Saints Chapel 110 S East Street Raleigh, NC 27601 Get Directions »

by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

September 01, 2020

Ronnie Jones

Ian, I am so sorry for your loss. I have kept up with Amy's journey through Adam. I was saddened when he called to let me know of Amy's passing. I remember the first time I met you both when I came to meet the dogs. Amy was so full of life and love for her animals. Please take comfort in your memories.
September 01, 2020

Debbie Oakley

May you rest in peace amy. Love and prayers to your family.
September 01, 2020

Shelley Valhos

Amy and I had a lot of laughs when her and Ian would come in to see me at the Angus Barn with their awesome group of friends. She definitely enjoyed her martinis! But my most favorite and meaningful moments were when we worked together to find a home for Olive, who her and Ian took into their own care so lovingly. She also helped me find a home for Taylor, another sweet rescue who went into the home of one of Amys many yoga students. Her network of loving friends has always been so impressive to me! She just radiated light and love. Her passion for animals aligned with mine and I truly enjoyed those moments of feeling like we were really doing something good together. Amy will be missed and thought of often by so many, including me.
September 01, 2020

Todd Allesi

Very sorry to hear of her passing. Amy was a special lady. My condolences to her family.
September 01, 2020

Harold and Kathy

Ian, we are so deeply sorry to hear of Amy's passing. We have been thinking of you and both your families. You are in our prayers, and please don't hesitate to let us know if we can help you in any way.
September 01, 2020

PM Goswick

When we do have the rare opportunity to witness true grace, we can be sure that we have been in the presence of an angel. Thank you for your light Amy. I feel so blessed to call you my friend.