BREAKING: Darrell Yeaney, a renowned advocate for social justice and human rights, has died at the age of 93 while on a family cruise along the Rhine River. The tragedy occurred on November 1, 2025, as he was traveling with his three children and grandchildren across Europe, including stops in Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Yeaney’s passing marks the loss of a dedicated activist who passionately fought for the rights of marginalized communities. For over 15 years, he participated in weekly vigils in Santa Cruz, California, advocating for Palestinian independence from Israeli military occupation. His commitment to social justice extended throughout his life, as he was deeply involved in the civil rights movement during his early career.
Born on November 29, 1931, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Yeaney grew up in Penn Hills, where his passion for advocacy began to take root. He graduated from Westminster College, where he met his wife, Sue. Together, they organized numerous trips to the Holy Land, engaging with peace activists in both Israel and Palestine.
Yeaney’s career as a campus minister spanned several states, including Kansas, Iowa, and California. His work included serving as pastor at the United Presbyterian Church in Manhattan, Kansas, and later as campus minister at the University of California, Santa Cruz. He also taught Professional Ethics at the University of Iowa’s Graduate School of Dentistry.
As a fierce advocate for civil rights, Yeaney was arrested in Mississippi while distributing voting rights leaflets. His legacy includes organizing humanitarian efforts and participating in outreach programs focused on peace and justice.
A celebration of life is scheduled for March 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Santa Cruz, where Yeaney was an active member. Following the service, a reception will be held, and his ashes will be spread in the church’s memorial garden alongside his late wife, Sue.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Resource Center for Non-Violence and Friends of Sabeel. Friends and family are invited to share memories and photographs on the provided memorial page.
Yeaney’s self-written memoir can also be accessed online, offering further insights into his remarkable life dedicated to justice and human rights.
The world has lost a passionate advocate, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
