Yatta Kimba

Yatta Kanaflee Salle Kimba, more affectionately known as Ma Yatta, departed this earthly life to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, August 30, 2026. She was born on August 10, 1940, in the lush green village of Kpokulahun, Hassala, Lofa County, Liberia, to Yahsalle and Kpanah Kamara.

From her humble beginnings in Liberia to the beautiful family and legacy she would later build, Ma Yatta lived a life defined by love, strength, hard work, and an unwavering devotion to family. She shared over 50 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Honorable Stephen F. Kimba who was a former member of the House of Representatives, Monrovia Liberia. Together, they built a family that became one of the greatest joys and accomplishments of her life.

Ma Yatta was a devoted wife and loving mother to Anna F.Kimba; Frederick S. Kimba (Jenneh Vanjai); Hawa E. Kimba; Francis F. Kimba (Isata Bayoh); Paul N. Kimba; and Mary Kimba Sheriff.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Stephen F. Kimba; her son, Mike Kimba; and her siblings, Salia Kamara and Blama Kamara.

Her legacy lives on through her cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of relatives, extended family, and dear friends whose lives were touched by her love.

Ma Yatta was a woman who truly understood the meaning of hard work. From her days in Liberia, she loved farming and growing produce, working the land with the same strength and determination she brought to caring for her family. She was also a wonderful cook who loved entertaining and feeding others. Wherever Ma Yatta was, there was a place for people to gather. Family and friends were welcomed to sit, eat, talk, laugh, and simply enjoy being together. Her generosity and hospitality reflected the Liberian values of community and caring for one another that remained an important part of who she was throughout her life.

Those fortunate enough to know Ma Yatta will remember her wonderful sense of humor. She was funny, full of personality, and could bring laughter to those around her. She especially treasured time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Laughing, playing, sharing stories, and simply enjoying their company brought her tremendous joy.

Even after making her home in the United States, Ma Yatta never forgot where she came from. She remained deeply connected to Liberia, Lofa County, and her Gbandi heritage. She loved the sound of traditional Gbandi music and especially loved to dance. Whether she was dancing, cooking, entertaining, telling a good story, or spending time surrounded by family, Ma Yatta carried the warmth and spirit of home with her.

To the Kimba family, Ma Yatta was much more than its matriarch. She was our rock and our pillar. She was a source of strength across generations, and through her hard work, sacrifice, love, and guidance, she helped build a foundation upon which her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will continue to stand.

Although her physical presence will be deeply missed, Ma Yatta leaves behind a legacy that death cannot take away. We will remember her laughter, her generous heart, her stories, her cooking, her dancing, and the traditions she carried with her from Liberia. Most importantly, we will remember the way she loved her family.

Her strength lives on in her children. Her joy lives on in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her traditions will continue through the generations that follow. And her love will remain forever in the hearts of the family she helped build.

As we mourn her passing, we also give thanks to God for the 86 years we were blessed to have her and find comfort in knowing that she has completed her earthly journey and is now at rest with her Lord and Savior.

Her life was a blessing. Her love was our foundation. Her family is her legacy. And she will forever remain the pillar of the Kimba family.

Rest well, Ma Yatta. May your beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.

Ernst Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Waukee has been entrusted with Yatta's final arrangements.