Nena Ucang Stevens

Nena passed away peacefully in Phoenix, Arizona, on Friday night, June 16, 2017. She was 63 years young. Nena was born and raised with siblings and cousins in the province of Bohol, Philippines. Despite her frail condition, she routinelywalked many miles to and from school and church services. She also played in fields, climbed palm trees, swam in nearby waters, and rode water buffalo. Even though she was the youngest child of Cirilo and EustaquiaUcang, Nena assumed much of the responsibility for cooking, cleaning, and sewing. Nena came to the United States by way of upstate New York. Afterward, she lived in the San Antonio area. She relocated by car with her sister and sister's family to Anchorage, Alaska. There, Nena met and married Russ, an Air Force officer. Nena was a dedicated member of the Air Force family, tirelessly supporting Russ's reassignments to Randolph, McGuire, F.E. Warren, Norton, and Kirtland Air Force Bases. Nena won awards at several bases for "Best Lawn" and best outdoor Christmas lighting. She was greatly beloved by Air Force personnel and their families. Nena and Russ retired to Tempe, Arizona in 1995. She worked for the company "Tech Group" – making lasting friends along the way -- until her declining health compelled her to retire. Nevertheless, Nena continued to be a fabulous cook and a diligent homemaker.She loved listening to music; her favorite songs were "Lady in Red" and "My Elusive Dream." She was also an avid watcher of movies; her favorite was "Pretty Woman." Nena is survived by her husband Russ; son Julius;granddaughter Annmarie; closest cousins Connie, Cora, and Rodell; brother-in law Harley Jackson; closest niece Joanna Springer; and closest nephew Alfred Jackson. She will be greatly missed by all others who knew and loved her.

Arrangements entrusted to Tempe Mortuary.