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Trudy STEPHENS Obituary
Trudy's favorite saying was 'This is your season and walk in it with grace.' She truly walked in her season with grace. She was a member of Sixth Mt. Zion Baptist Temple. Trudy was educated in Newport News and Philadelphia Public Schools. She graduated, in 2002, from Philadelphia Community College with honors and received her Associate's Degree. She was also a member of the 'Phi Theta Kappa Society.' She excelled and became a role model for other students. She often returned to the college as a motivational speaker and found she had a gift for public speaking. She began her career at the Interact Intensive Treatment program and completed her career as a supervisor with the Community Treatment Team as an Intensive Case Manager. She spoke frequently at churches, health fairs and other venues educating people on cancer. She worked extensively as a volunteer for the American Cancer Society (ACS) and often had an annual team for the 'Relay For Life' campaign. It was her greatest joy, helping other cancer patients.
Trudy leaves to cherish her memory her mother, Shirley Breedlove; her children, Tamika Nicole Coleman and Andrew Stephens; eight grandchildren, Jamir, Amarilis, Shamaj, Kwahliyf, Tariah, Paquetta, Latisha and Andrew Jr.; one sister, Stephanie R. Iverson of Hampton, Va.; six brothers, Henry Simon (Beverly), Gregory Pittman (Mary), Joseph Breedlove, Martin Dougherty, all of Newport News, Va., Lawson C. Breedlove II (Angela) and Daniel Breedlove (Keisha) of Hampton, Va.,; and a host of nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2010, at Sixth Mt. Zion Baptist Temple, 3100 Butternut Drive, Hampton, VA 23666. The Stephens family is receiving services of comfort by the staff at Nickelson-Cummings Funeral Home, 4304 Victoria Blvd., Hampton. (757) 728-0122 View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Trudy STEPHENS
Amarilis stephens, Andrew stephens
October 28, 2023
I´m sorry I never got to remember you as I wish I was able to, but I´m happy you lived a good life and I´m happy with the children you had because I´m extremely grateful for my father, You raised him well love you grandma.
Dee Board
September 5, 2023
Thinking of you Trudy on this anniversary of your passing. I thank God for our short journey together. I pray that your family has peace in their memories of you. Always in my prayers.
September 28, 2010
To the Stephens Family, may God Bless and Watch over you during this time of grievance. I only meet your beloved Trudy one year ago through mutual friends. Her persona, character and the love that she exemplifies to and for others was remarkable. It is so true that the people you meet may be an Angel sent from God. May God Rest Her Soul and me she live eternally in all the hearts she touched - including me and my daughter Deja. God Bless - Dana and Deja Black
patricia kirkland
September 28, 2010
i will cherish my friendship and love for trudy she was special to me i could never replace her she had a sweet spirit and shined on anyone tha new her i will truly miss her love pat
Carol Smith
September 24, 2010
May God continue to give you comfort and peace in the memory of your special love one. Trudy was so special to all she came in contact with. I was honred to have her call me Mom. thanks for sharing her with me.
~Best Friends Forever~
Cherie Smith
September 23, 2010
September 23, 2010
Cherie Smith
September 23, 2010
I was truly blessed to have Trudy in my life . She had a calling of loving people unconditionally. I will continue to benefit from the investment she made in my life.
Eddie Blue
September 22, 2010
Dorine Richard ( Stephanie Iverson -Sister Co-worker)
September 21, 2010
My Condolences to the Trudy Stephens family. I pray that God's peace continue to bless this entire family.
angela collins
September 21, 2010
Trudy, rest in peace. You are free now to live with our Lord - no more worries or cares. I will always remember you!
EDDIE BLUE
September 17, 2010
MY SYMPATHIES TO TRUDY'S FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF WHICH I WAS ONE OF.SHE ALWAYS GLOWED WHEN RUNNING INTO HER OVER THE YEARS....SHE'LL BE SADLY MISSED
September 15, 2010
Trudy had a passion for the truth,and never missed an opportunity to instill the importance of honesty.Sometimes we don't appreciate the gift we have in a friend .And fortunately I became someone who she shared this with.For this I will always be grateful .Until we meet again, love you Trudy.Your Sister in Christ. Phara
Marilyn Ruffin
September 15, 2010
Ethnic Fusion Book Club would like to extend our condolences to the family of Trudy. She came to our first book discussion meeting and we fell in love with her then. She had such a warm spirit. After she couldn't attend any more meetings, we established her as an honorary member.
Dionne Williams
September 15, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. She will be remembered for having a kind, positive, gentle, and loving spirit....God's example. She reminded me of what's most important in life. I thank God for having known her and she'll always be in heart! Love, Dionne Williams and Family
Pat Frederick
September 14, 2010
I am very grateful to have known Trudy, she was one of my fellow Bosum Buddies. She will be sorely missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love her. BUT, remember........... that no one really dies as long as there is someone who remembers, and when there is no one left who remembers it really doesn't matter because we will all be together again............
YOU WILL BE MISSED TAKEN 6/7/2009 TAMMY & TRUDY
TAMMY GRIER
September 14, 2010
ON JUNE 7TH, 2009 I HAD THE PLEASURE TO HAVE TRUDY ENTER MY HOME FOR THE FIRST TIME AS A STRANGER TO ME AND SHE TO I. ON JUNE 8TH I STARTED MY 1ST CHEMO TREATMENT. SHE EMBRACED ME WITH OPEN ARMS AND SHE HAD A CAP ON HER HEAD AND SHE SAT DOWN AND TOOK IT OFF. THE TEARS RAN FROM MY EYES. TRUDY EMBRACED ME AS IF I KNEW HERE FOR YEARS. SHE GAVE HER TESTIMONY AND ENCOURAGED ME FOR WHAT WAS TO COME THE NEXT DAY FOR CHEMO FOR ME...AND WITH HER AND THE "LORD" A PEACEFUL REST CAME THAT NIGHT..WE TOOK PICTURES TOGETHER AND SHE GAVE ME ALL THE INFO THE CANCER DOCTORS TEND TO LEAVE OUT IF YOU DONT ASK. EARLY THE NEXT MORNING ON JUNE 8TH SHE WAS THE FIRST VOICE TO HEAR WISHING WE WELL AND MANY CARDS IN THE MAIL AFTER THAT CHECKING ON ME...I AM SO HEART BROKEN CAUSE SHE WILL BE MISSED BUT I KNOW SHE KNEW THE "LORD" AND SHE HAD HELPED SO MANY..."GOD" HAS CALLED HER INTO "HIS" ETERNAL REST NOW AND IT WAS TIME FOR HER TO GO BE WITH OUR "FATHER"...HOWEVER SHE LEFT BEHIND HER SPIRIT OF HOPE FOR OTHERS AND HER FIGHT LIKE NO OTHER TO PRESS ON INSPITE OF WHAT THE CANCER DOCTORS SAY..CAUSE THEY ARE ONLY DOING THEIR JOBS...BUT TRUDY TRUSTED OUR "GOD" AND WORKED UNTIL HE CALLED HER HOME...TRUDY YOUR LEGACY WILL BE REMEMBERED....LOVE YOU MY DEAR SISTER IN "CHRIST"
LOVE: TAMMY GRIER AND FAMILY
Mom Diane Fennell
September 14, 2010
Tamika, My prayers are with you and your family. Your mother suffer so much and now the Lord has replaced it with serenity. She is in Paradise now. No more pain, no more troubles. May the Lord bless you and keep you in his loving embrace.
Robin Riddick
September 14, 2010
reflecting back now ... it was a busy night ... the Er was constantly sending specimens, the nurses were calling down every minute to ask a question ... i had just settled down to prepare the work for the incoming shift when I receive another phone call ... it was a nurse on 5 west and she said " I'm calling to speak with a robin" and I said "that's me" She seemed to me to exhale slowly ... " oh great ... I'm calling for your cousin Cookie. She's here and wanted me to call the lab so she could talk with you". I laughed out loud and thought that's Cookie ... persistent, straight forward and loving her family! We talked for quite awhile.! ... great memories! At times she would call to tell me 'don't forget to come up and see her after I get off!' and i would go see her ... no matter how tired I was because I knew as soon as I enter that room I wouldn't be tired anymore! I would sit down and we would talk and talk some more! Sometimes she would ask about family and what was going on in their lives ... at other times she would tell me what the doctors said and even more important what she believed and then would talk about ME! ... wonderful memories. And before I would leave to go home ... she Always, always ask me to pray for her! Wow! Me! I felt humbled and honored at the same time. My last memories of Cookie were of a brave, fearless, God-loving, people-loving soul. My Hero! loving you forever! See on that great getting up morning ... robin
Pat Jones
September 13, 2010
Trudy Stephens was a gift to me....her radiant smile touched me the first time we met. Trudy and I shared a lot of laughs, she had a wonderful sense of humor. Trudy loved everybody, greeting everyone with that famous Trudy smile.
I miss you Trudy Stephens!
Andre Phillips
September 13, 2010
May the Lord Bless you real good family ,
I met this family over 25 years ago on 31St. a Family of great faith, Cookie
grandmother kept praying for her family, to be saved now look at God all of the children are working for the lord, St.Breedlove look unto the hill, where your help is.The foundation started at the Church of God
now ,you are in Calvary, Oh what a good God we have keep the faith famiy I love all of you, Keep Cookie Love in the family, we never walk alone, thanks for loving me Andre Phillips your friend around the corner on marshall ave .
ann jackson
September 13, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Cecelia Thomas
September 13, 2010
FOR YOU COOKIE. YOU WILL ALWAYS SHINE IN OUR HEARTS.
Lori & Kyle I Massenburg
September 13, 2010
To the family of Trudy "Ms. Cookie" Stephens. I had the pleasure of meeting Ms.Cookie through her daughter we went to high school together. My family and I are so sorry for your loss Tamika your Mother fought a very very good fight she is resting in his arms now smiling down on you and your family. You and your family have and always will be in our prays.
Love, The Massenburg's (Big Kyle, Lori and Lil Kyle), Beltsville, Maryland
Chrystal and Travis Barnes
September 13, 2010
Ms. Trudy will be deeply missed but now is in a better place with our Savior. Condolences to her family and loved ones.
September 13, 2010
To the family of Ms. Trudy "Ms. Cookie" Stephens. I meet Ms. Cookie when I attend high school with her daughter. To Tamika and your family. She fought and very very good fight and now she happy and resting in his arms. My Family and I are so sorry for your lost and we kept you in our prays ALWAYS.
The Massenburg Family (Big Kyle. Lori, Lil Kyle), Beltsville, Maryland
Connie Bush
September 13, 2010
Trudy was an inspiration to every cancer survivor. She was a wonderful lady who will be missed by all.
Wendy Arsad
September 13, 2010
This candle represents the light of hope that Trudy has given to so many. We had the pleasure of meeting Trudy about two years ago at our Cancer Awareness Event at our Church, which she has diligently come for the last two years inspite of one year having surgery, another year her Uncle had passed away. She gave God all the glory in what ever condition she was going through. She had a great sense of humor and you couldn't help but lol. Thank you to her family and friends for sharing Trudy with us. May God continually comfort and keep you.
Angela Gadson
September 13, 2010
I am Not There
Do not stand
At my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep
I am in
A thousand winds that blow
I am the
Diamond glints on snow
I am the sunlight
On ripend grain
I am in the gentle
Autumn rain
When you awaken
In the morning’s hush
I am in the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight
I am the soft star
That shines at night
I am the flowers that bloom
I am in a quiet room
I am the birds that sing
I am in each lovely thing
Do not stand at my grave and cry
I am not there I did not die
For Trudy's family our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Trudy, you were one of my best friends and you will be truly missed and forever in my heart.
Peace and blessings
The Gadsons
Angie, Tika, and Crystal
September 13, 2010
Family, Our thoughts and prayers goes out to you. Cookie was a strong young lady and I know she would want you all to remain strong to carry on where she left off. Cookie will truly be missed by all of her friend in Phildelphia.
Joe and Kelly Grist
September 13, 2010
Kelly and I were blessed to have known Trudy "Cookie" Stephens these past few years. We were saddened to learn that Trudy had been called home but we know she is now smiling upon us. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.
Dee Board
September 13, 2010
Trudy, I am so greatful to God for letting me see one more time on the Monday before your passing. I was able to tell you I love you and you told me that you loved me too. I'll always remember that moment. I thank God for placing you in my life. You've taught me so much about the mercy and glory of God, and never to give up hope. We all loved you, but God loved you more. Fairwell my good Friend until we meet again.
Jeanne Baaklini
September 13, 2010
Stephanie, my heart goes out to you, I pray for you and your family. I share your sadness. I know that your Cookie is in a better place, where their is no pain and suffering. She is with my Rose. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Molly Shackelford
September 13, 2010
I had the honor of meeting Ms. Trudy "Cookie" on several occasions at VMRC when she would come to visit you and Nancy. She always beamed like a ray of sunshine, no matter how cloudy the skies were. Nancy raved on an on about your sister and you know when Nancy Crane speaks so sweetly of someone, there is no doubt about how amazing that someone must really be. God Bless you and Jasmine and all of those who loved your precious sister. I hope the difficult days ahead will be gentle and kind for you and yours and that the powerful impact your loving sister left on friends and strangers alike will live on forever.
Molly Shackelford
(Carter, Katie & Kassie, too.)
Linda Hancock
September 13, 2010
Stephanie and Family, there are no words that can express how sorry I am that you have lost your Trudy. Please know that her spirit will live within each of you forever, for she was indeed a very special and unique individual. God bless each of you and help you get through this time of loss. Fond regards,
September 13, 2010
How do I begin to describe how much I'm going to miss you. There are no words. You were my only sister in a sea of brothers. We held on to each other. You were my greatest champion. You believed I could do anything. Your support was never failing. As long as I can remember you were the one that lifted me and encouraged me. When I went off to college you took me shopping for everything a new college student would need. You thought I was the smartest college student. How do you put words to someone who made you feel bigger and better than you knew you were in reality. You pushed me. I watched you grow in so many areas of your life. You were one of the strongest most courageous women I knew. You were my friend, my lifeline, my sister for life. I will miss you more than words can say. How do I wrap up forty-seven years of relationship in a few words. I can't, so I won't try, just know that my life is so much more empty without you. You will be forever remembered...love Stephanie
Cecelia Thomas
September 13, 2010
Trudy,(I like to call you Cookie) When Re first told me about your passing, I was numb. But as I think of what a lovely person you were, I realize GOD needed you to do a job in heaven.
You were a very strong person Cookie and you were an inspiration to others with cancer. You were a fighter until the end and you will be missed. Our prayers go out to your family. You are alright now resting in the arms of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Ursula S Williams
September 12, 2010
To the family of Trudy Stephens, God bless and sustain you. Our prayers are with you, Ursula S, Williams
Vickie Williams
September 12, 2010
It is not every day, you meet a woman who has an significant impact on you...well Trudy was it. A breast cancer anhil8tor, she came into my life as I started my battle. She has now gone on to Glory. She has left an lasting impression on me, her friends and family. I will contiue on the good fight in her name. A woman of great humor. She gave me th business when we last talked and still told me she loved me and wanted to know how I was doing.. This was Trudy, a woman of great love, grace and impact...RIP friend...RIP
tony wilcox
September 12, 2010
From Tony Wilcox I am sending my deepest condolence and I will always love and miss
paula wilcox
September 12, 2010
From the Wilcox family we send our deepest condolence and love and you are in our prayers We will miss you
Delnita Minor
September 12, 2010
I light this candle for my lovely sister Trudy.. Your light shined so bright and you will truly be remembered. I love you and I miss you.
Greg, Mary,Kyron Pittman
September 12, 2010
We will miss you alot.God only call the ones that have done their job well here on earth. You was a blessing to alot of people even people you did not know. To the family stay strong in the Lord.
Your brother Greg family
greg and mary pittman
September 12, 2010
Ronnette Langhorne
September 12, 2010
Trudy, I cannot believe that you are not here anymore. From the first day I met you, I knew you were someone special. When you spoke, there was always a lesson of life given. I thank GOD for placing you in my life.
I remember when you were a bit nervous about your 1st breast cancer survivor speaking engagement, when you came to 1st annual Chi Eta Phi Sorority Breast Cancer Awareness Program. You had everyone amazed at your strength and humor. You did a great job and went on to continue speaking out about Breast Cancer. Girl you are a phenomenal woman.
I thank you for sharing your experience and life with the community as you went on to teach others how to be survivors.
I will miss all of inspirational emails you would send from time to time. They all made me smile. Just like hearing your name always and will always bring a smile to my face and warm my heart.
GOD has called you home, you have earned your wings... And deserving so. I am honored to have been blessed by such a maginificent woman, who gave unselfishly of herself. Now you are soaring high and watching over all your family, friends and survivors, we are all blessed that GOD and your family has shared you with all of us. JOB WELL DONE ANGEL.
Love you girl,
Ronnette C. Langhorne
aREtha Henderson
September 11, 2010
Trudy my friend, sister, and supporter I will truly miss you and all the fun and laugher we share. The pain I feel now, I know it will pass slowly. Thank you for being a true friend and a part of my family. When I sit and think about you I will always remember your smile. The time me, you, and Tia learning to swim to getting our hair done then deciding with our silly selfs going to the pool that day cause we couldn't stay away from the water. And us being a part of Bosom Buddies lend us to raising money for Relay For Life each year. To you becoming a speaker and advocate for breast cancer. To you volunteer at The American Cancer Society and forming your own support group at your church, you have touch soooooooooo many lives. To us just hanging out and me driving getting us lost to your friends in Philly calling and asking you here in VA for direction to find their destination over in Philly. I just want to thank you for letting me be apart of your family and you being apart of my family. Thank you for making me laugh, when I was down and really need a friend. Till we meet again, things here will be fine. God has truly gave us an angel. I will keep in touch with Tamika and keep Dee Dee my prayers. And your mom, sister, brothers, and allllllllll your friends in my prayers.
LOVE YA LIKE A SISTER,
RE
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