Jo Ann Stephens

Jo Ann Leininger Stephens met the Great Spirit November 3, 2009, after a brief fight with cancer. Born in 1935, she was the only daughter of the late Ralph and Juanita Leininger and sister of James Leininger. The young family followed employment to several valley towns including Madera and Lindsey before settling in Kingsburg, Ca. Here Jody met many of her lifelong friends. After graduation from Kingsburg High School, Jody enrolled at Fresno State College where she obtained her degree in education. She was also a member of the Delta Gamma Sorority. Prior to graduation, she met and married Newman Black. Together they raised three children. After her children were grown, Jody entered into the real estate appraisal business and donated time to the Holiday Boutique. In 1994, Jody met and married Keith H. Stephens. Jody will always be remembered for her love of her family, friends, her animals and the time she spent with both at Cayucos, Ca. and the Sierra. Jody was a voracious reader who tore through the pages of 3-4 books each week and passed her love of reading onto those around her. She loved a good time, had a great sense of humor and truly cared about those around her. Jody never met a cat or dog that she didn't love, befriending thousands and adopting a few too. Jody was preceded in death by her brother, James Leininger, her daughter, Leisha Black, and her parents Ralph and Juanita Leininger. Jody is survived by her husband, Keith Stephens of Fresno, Ca., Keith's children and grandchildren; her son and daughter-in-law, James Newman (Jim) and Cheryl Black of Madera County; daughter, Laurie Black Case and her husband Michael Case of Sanger Ca. and grandchildren Matthew and Shannon Black. A Graveside Service will be held at Belmont Memorial, on Tuesday, November 10, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations in remembrance be made to Nancy Hinds Hospice or any local animal shelter-pet adoption center.