Yazzie, who was born in Canyon de Chelly in 1914, enlisted in the Army when he was 28 and served during World War II, KPNX reported. She was a Women's Army Corps Technician Grade 4 and was honorably discharged after the war, according to Navajo Times.
Saddened to learn of the passing of Sophie Yazzie, a World War II Veteran and member of the Navajo Nation. At the age of 105, Sophie was one of the longest living female WWII veterans. Arizona is forever grateful for her service. Our prayers are with her loved ones. #RIP pic.twitter.com/oxsIVgdowT
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) January 26, 2020
Yazzie graduated from Wingate Boarding School in 1934, the website reported. She returned to her alma mater after the war and worked there until she retired at 70, KPNX reported.
Wanda Wright, the director of the Arizona Department of Veterans Services, released a message of condolences, KNXV reported.
“I am blessed to have met Sophie and hear about her service to our country. Last summer we were honored to be able to present Sophie with Governor Ducey’s Arizona Women Veteran’s Week proclamation," Wright said. "We send our deepest condolences to her family and friends, and will always remember her legacy.”
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey tweeted a tribute to Yazzie on Saturday afternoon.
She had four children, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
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