Elenor Rebecca “Becky” Stephens

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Elenor Rebecca “Becky” Stephens, 81, of Willard, passed away on February 4, 2021. Becky was born on October 24, 1939 in Slater, South Carolina to the late Eli and Eva (Hall) Cannon. Growing up in the South as the daughter of a minister, Becky developed a love for music, faith, cooking, and laughter.

The one-of-a-kind love story between Becky and her husband, Norm Stephens, began when she was a young woman living in Cleveland, Tennessee. He wrote to her at the suggestion of her sister who was preaching a revival at his home church in Willard. Months of correspondence led to love and then meeting in person and eventually marrying on July 28, 1961 in Willard where they raised their three children.

At the age of 39 Becky began studies at The Ohio State University to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. She taught at St. Francis Xavier School and Willard City Schools and profoundly impacted the lives of hundreds of students.

In retirement, Becky enjoyed long road trips with Norm that often included visiting her children and grandchildren, who were her pride and joy.

She was a devoted wife, nurturing mother, loving grandmother “Nannie”, and dear sister. She is survived by her husband Norm Stephens; sister Virgie Clevenger; sons Tony (Darlene) Stephens and John Stephens; daughter Shari (Bryan Devine); six grandchildren; Guy (Jessica) Frye, Sarah Frye (Mark Allen), Jordan (KelliAnne) Stephens, Kate (Tim) Jackson, Miranda Stephens, and Zeb Stephens; three great-grandchildren: Levon, Lelia, and Judah - who all loved her dearly.

She loved her family and her close friends fiercely. She will always be remembered for her compassion and her fabulous laugh.

She was preceded in death by her parents and by her siblings Merita Cannon, Ralph Cannon, Sybil Cannon, Sarah Elizabeth Hibbs, and Ann Frost.

There will be a private memorial service and calling hours at the Secor Funeral Home in Willard, Ohio followed by a graveside service at the Maple Grove Cemetery in New Haven. Memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Home Health Care & Hospice, 907 W. State St A, Fremont, OH 43420. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at secorfuneralhomes.com.