Ms. Elizabeth "Leah" Stephens died March 6. The daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Henry (Marie Jordan) Stephens, she was born in Jasper County in 1947. Ms. Stephens was one of 12 children and was raised in Newton County. During her childhood she joined Murray C.M.E. Church and later joined Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church. After receiving her certification as a Certified Nurses Assistant, she worked at Starcrest Nursing Facility, Lithonia. She enjoyed fishing and playing card games and bingo. An excellent homemaker, Ms. Stephens was the proud mother of two sons. She was kind with an easy-going disposition. Ms. Stephens was friendly, dependable and a great humanitarian. She cherished time with her family. Ms. Stephens was preceded in death by sister Mary E. Smith and brothers Willie R. Stephens, J.C. Stephens, Frank Stephens and Johnny C. Stephens.

Surviving are sons Rebbie (Marie) Stephens, Ronnie "Lett" (Rose) Stephens; grandchildren Toya, Renechia, Nashia, Sedarius; step-children Benard, Maranda, Ani, Shun, Ian; great-granddaughter Honeste; step-great grandchild Ajanonna; sisters Jeanette Henderson, Gloria Rakestraw, Jacqueline McCoy, Mamie Nolley; brothers Jessie Stephens, J.H. Stephens, George Stephens; aunts Annie M. Roby and Willie M. White; special nieces Linda Carter, Kathy Smith; special nephews Charles, Hubie, Travis (Dee) and Dexter; devoted friend Tommy Hill; special friends Willie Pearl Dobbs, Sharon Wright, Thelma Starr, Clarence Price, Calamity Camp, Patricia Carter, Shirley Brooks; a host of other loving nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held March 12 at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Carlton Mathis officiating. Interment followed at Macedonia Cemetery.

The Covington News
March 14, 2008