Mrs. Edna White Stephens

Obituary For Mrs. Edna White Stephens

The Road She Walked

"But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold." - Job 23:10

Edna Veronica White Stephens the eldest child of the late Andrew Luther White, Sr., and the late Helen Daniels White was born in Cairo, Georgia.

She attended Washington High School in Cairo where she graduated as Valedictorian of her 1956 class. She furthered her education at Fort Valley State College where she was voted Most Studious by her freshman class. She remained on the Dean’s List throughout her years. During her matriculation, she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Alpha Beta Chapter in 1957. The highlight of her four years of college was holding the coveted title of Miss Fort Valley State College (1959-1960). After completing her student teaching in Columbus, Georgia, she graduated Summa Cum Laude in 1960; receiving a Bachelor's of Science degree in her double major of French and English. She started her career at Washington Street High School in Quitman, Georgia. Beginning as a French teacher, she was able to spark her student’s interests far beyond Quitman’s boarders.

Within the first few years of her stay in Quitman, she met the love of her life, the late James Wesley Stephens. They married on June 13, 1964. During that same year, she was chosen for an advanced studies program at Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia. After completing her program, she returned to her role of teaching now in English Literature. To the marital union, three children were born. She was preceded in death on October 12, 1967, by her firstborn son, Brian Desmond Stephens. Her many educational and community accomplishments include being a member of Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society, Chapter Founder of Kappa Eta Omega, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., in Valdosta, Georgia, 1974 STAR Teacher, and receiving many awards as the Literary and Oral Interpretation Coordinator and drama instructor. After 33 years of teaching at Washington Street High School and serving as Assistant Principal at Brooks County High School, she retired in 1996.

Always straightforward, when asked of her greatest accomplishments, her never-wavering response was being a mother and a grandmother.

Edna White Stephens accepted the Lord at an early age by joining Mount Calvary First Baptist Church in Cairo, Georgia, and moved her membership to Beulah Missionary Baptist Church soon after marriage. She was a devoted member serving in the Gospel Choir while chairing many commit tees. In later years, she helped revise the church’s bylaws and was Chairman of the Outreach Ministry. Along with her dedication to the ministry, most of her enjoyment was found having monthly lunches with her “Pearls.” For these outings, she would dress in her trendiest of outfits always including heels.

She departed this life on December 27, 2022, in the comfort of her home. Edna is survived by one daughter, Aleta Delayne Stephens Raiford (Delbert) of Quitman, Georgia; one son, Kendall Lerone Stephens (Rita) of Braselton,Georgia; two granddaughters, Kennedi Alise Stephens of Conyers, Georgia, and Summer Simone Stephens of Atlanta, Georgia; one sister, Agnes White Anderson (the late Leonard) of Decatur, Georgia; two brothers, Larry White (Gail) of Stone Mountain, Georgia, and Kenneth Maurice White (Arrie) of Atlanta, Georgia; two sisters-in-law, Barbara White (the late Luther Jr.) of Decatur, Georgia, and JoAnn Stephens Pride (Willie) of Cleveland, Ohio; devoted aunt, Doris White (the late Ebb) of Cleveland, Ohio; devoted cousin, Terry Daniels (Gwen) of Jacksonville, Florida; two special friends, Mary Alice Adams of Quitman, Georgia, and Yvonne Mitchner of Cuthbert, Georgia; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Edna was an inspiration to all who knew her. Because her spirit was selfless and giving. She walked in an air of grace and dignity. Her love of people and community shone through to all. Her passing has left a hole in our hearts, but her teachings have left an impenetrable mark that will transcend generations.

A celebration of life will be Saturday, January 7, 2023 at 1PM at Beulah M.B. Church with Rev. Dr. Priscilla Adams, eulogist. Visit this website to extend condolences to the family and view a livestream of the celebration on Saturday.

Continue to keep the family in your daily thoughts and prayers.

Honor the life of Mrs. Edna White Stephens

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