Photo courtesy of Woodfin Funeral Chapel - Smyrna
Smyrna, Tennessee
Aug 26, 1933 – Dec 22, 2022
Barbara Lillian Cotton Stephenson, age 89 of Smyrna, Tennessee died December 22, 2022. She was born in Sale, Cheshire England and was a Naturalized American Citizen. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Frank Stephenson of whom she was a traveling US Air Force wife.
She is survived by her daughter, Linda Stephenson Cazel (Matthew) of Smyrna, a son, Kevin Stephenson (Violetta) of Seychelles; grandchildren, Brandon Bentley (Melissa) of College Grove; Allison Bentley Mallett (Ronnie) of Smyrna: Oskar Sendecki (Alexsandra) of Poland; and great grandchildren, Sean Sendecki, Liam Sendecki, Brooklyn Mallett, Briley Mallett, Jasper Bentley and Peyton Bentley; along with a host of nieces and nephews throughout the US.
She was affiliated with a variety of occupations and organizations including, substitute teaching, Secretary at John Colemon Elementary School, dental assistant at Sewart AFB, Royal Bank of London/Montreal, Royal Air Force, Red Cross Candy Striper, Hospice, Girl Scout Leader, British Wives Club, Home Demonstration Club and the Order of the Eastern Star.
She was a member of the Church of England where she was a choir member of St Paul’s Cathedral and Highland Heights Church of Christ. Her sweet British accent was enjoyed by all, but it was said that her West Tennessee in-laws never understood a word she said and her introduction to southern food served on a 10ft table where she recognized nothing led way to a cookbook purchase that her husband stated, “anyone who can read can cook”. Barbara proved him wrong. She never learned to cook but the kettle was always warm.
Graveside services will be in Morgan Cemetery, Palmersville, Tennessee at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Woodfin Funeral Chapels and an online guestbook is available for the Stephenson family at www.woodfinchapel.com.
Read MoreMrs. Barbara always brought a smile to my face every time I saw her. I enjoyed seeing her several times a week the past year. Her laugh, sense of humor, and warm personality always brought me comfort and joy. Love you, Mrs. Barbara! I sure do miss hearing and seeing you in the halls. Prayers to the family during this time of mourning, God Bless.
Kelci Peck
January 03, 2023 | Murfreesboro, TN | Friend
Barbara was a lovely woman. Our prayers go out to you, Linda. God bless.
Anita Youngs
December 24, 2022 | Smyrna, TN | Friend
I send family and friends my condolences. I worked with Barbara years ago at John Coleman. She was a delight. I have many memories of her. May she rest in peace.
Jerri Birkofer
December 24, 2022 | Coworker
I am so sorry for your loss and know that many feel as if it their loss as well. Barbara goes back along way in Smyrna and touched many people and we all were blessed to know her. So many stories and I still have the pieces she made for me in ceramics. She loved her children and grandchildren and was always happy to talk about her life before coming to the states and after. She will be missed.
Kelly Hood
December 24, 2022 | Friend
Barbara enjoyed coming to the Smyrna Activity Center to see her friends and play dominoes. She was a sweet lady with a sweet smile who will be sadly missed. May the love of all who knew her surround her family at this time of sadness. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Janie Thomas
December 24, 2022 | Smyrna, TN | Acquaintance
I am SO sad to hear this news. Barbara was my “ American “ mum when I arrived from the UK to live in Smyrna and she was so kind and caring to me and took me under her wing- such a wonderful lady! I have so many wonderful memories of time spent with both Bob and Barbara and she will stay in my heart always. Her love of life was contagious as was her love of chocolate digestive biscuits!!! Sending love to you all from the UK .
Sue Mason
December 24, 2022 | Worthing, UK | Friend
Mrs. Stephenson was the sweetest lady. She was so generous with her time and dedication to her Rainbow girls. She will always hold a special place in my heart. Prayers of comfort to her family.
Tina Fisher
December 23, 2022 | Manchester, TN | Friend
Linda,
We are so sorry to hear of your mothers passing. I will always remember the friendship your parents had with my parents. They became such good friends over the years. Your mothers sweet smile and laughter was so contagious. Please accept our sincere condolences at this time.
Steve and Chrissy Spradling
December 23, 2022 | Smyrna, TN | Friend
Barbara was a sweet and special person. She was such a close friend to my mom, Dollie Abbass, for many years that she seemed like a member of the family. We want you to know we are thinking of you at this difficult time, and please accept our most heartfelt and deepest condolences.
Chris and Danita Wrenn
December 23, 2022 | Smyrna, TN | Friend
