Elizabeth Stephens

Elizabeth D. Stephens VIRGINIA BEACH - Elizabeth Derrickson Stephens, 45, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 2010 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Affectionately known to her family as "Dizzi," Elizabeth, was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister and aunt, a faithful friend and dedicated nurse. Born and raised in Norfolk, Elizabeth graduated from Maury High School, studied radiology at Norfolk General Hospital and nursing at Virginia Beach Vocational Center. In nursing, Elizabeth found great satisfaction and fulfillment. She cared deeply for her patients and the doctors of Sentara, with whom she worked with for 22 years. In return, she was loved and respected by her patients and co-workers. When not working, Elizabeth most enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially at the beach. Elizabeth is survived by her husband, Samuel D. Stephens and their son, Sammy of Virginia Beach; mother, Mrs. James W. (Barbara) Derrickson Jr. of Virginia Beach; brother, James W. Derrickson III and his wife Angela of Raleigh, N.C.; brother, Stephen T. Derrickson of St. Petersburg, Fla. She was predeceased by her father, James W. Derrickson Jr. Elizabeth also is survived by her husband's parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Stephens of Norfolk; numerous nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law; and Willie Mae Reid, who was like a mother to Elizabeth. The family would like to thank Dr. Burton Alexander and Mrs. Laura Parker, RN, for their compassionate care; Pastor John Sinkhorn and the congregation of Bethany Free Will Baptist Church for their love and spiritual support. A memorial service will be held at Christ and St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Norfolk, Saturday, Nov. 20, at 11 a.m. followed by a reception in the parish hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, P.O. Box 2156, Norfolk, VA 23501-9873. Online condolences may be expressed at www.cremate. org.