Celia was born in Minden, Louisiana, March 17, 1930. She has lived in Beaumont since 1960 where she has been a faithful servant of the Lord at Calvary Baptist Church in Beaumont. She served as a church secretary for 32 years under five pastors, and in many positions over the years as a children's teacher, care group leader, and numerous others. She possessed an exceptional ability to keep up with people, ministering to them in special ways and to lead in a quiet unassuming way. She was a devoted volunteer with Memorial Herman Baptist Hospital in Beaumont.

Celia was preceded in death by husbands Talbert Travis and Howard Yates. She is survived by one brother, Donald Maples, two sons and their wives, David and Connie Travis of Beaumont, Steven and Dorothy Travis of Port Neches, stepson and wife, Eddy and Ann Yates of Beaumont, five grandchildren, Aaron Travis and wife Michelle, Celeste Thompson and husband Russell, Elizabeth Travis, Daniel Travis, Ryan Travis, and four great grandchildren.

For those who wish, Celia requested memorials be directed to the Mission Fund of Calvary Baptist Church, 3650 Dowlen Rd. Beaumont, Texas 77706.