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GLADEWATER - Funeral services for Latoya Katrice Stephens, 29, of Longview, will be 11 a.m. Saturday, December 19, 2009, at Galilee Baptist Church, in Longview. Arrangements are by Dearion & Davis Funeral Parlor. Burial will follow in New Hope Cemetery, in Kilgore.
She was born July 17, 1980, in Ruston, Louisiana. She died Friday, December 11, 2009, at her residence.
Survivors include her mother, Ruthie Washington; father, James D. Stephens; brother, James F. Stephens; a grandfather; aunts; uncles; and cousins.
Viewing will be 1-7 p.m. Friday, December 18, 2009, at the funeral parlor.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Natalie Bradley
Yesterday
Here on what would be your 45th birthday to remind the world I will forever keep your memories alive!
Corey Duckett
September 26, 2020
A beautiful spirit inside and out!!
Nancy Essary
January 13, 2010
Dearest Ruthie,
I am so sorry for your precious loss. LaToya was so beautiful, like you! Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.
May God continue to comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead.
Love,
Nancy Essary
Lorraine Stell
January 12, 2010
To James D., Ruthie, Boone and Cousin Fred
We continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers at this time of bereavement. May you feel the comfort of God's presence in the days ahead. We will always cherish LaToya's love, kindness and beautiful spirit.
Much love, the Stell and Smith Families
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LaTiffany Soria
December 21, 2009
My prayers go out to the family at this difficult time in their life. LaToya was so sweet and beautiful, I was blessed to sit in front of her in my algebra class at Kilgore College. I know that God is taking care of her now and pray for comfort for you all.
December 21, 2009
Remembering that God is able to do anything but fail is one of the the hardest things when you are going through!! But know, you can do all things through Christ; He will keep you at times when you think you can no longer go on. Our prayers are with you at this time. God Bless You!!
Clifford (Tweety) & Jennita
TaMesha Christian-Pickrom
December 19, 2009
My heart goes out to Ms.Ruthie and the rest of the family I can remember going over to Toya's with my cousin Nicole and playing with her as little girls, she will truly be missed, heaven has a beautiful new angel
Natalie Crowe-Bradley
December 19, 2009
I am so sorry about your loss.I remember Toya from elementary, middle school and high school she was so nice and sweet.You will be forever missed.I will continue to pray for the family.
SHADERRIC CRAWFORD
December 19, 2009
"WHEN YOU SEE PEOPLE AND KNOW THEM FOR AS LONG AS YOU HAVE YOU NEVER REALIZE OR THINK YOU MAY LOSE THEM ONE DAY....I JUST SAW YOU HUGGED YOU AND HAD LAUGHS WITH YOU....ITS SO SAD TO LOSE A GOOD FRIEND BUT I KNOW THAT YOU ARE IN A BETTER PLACE AND YOUR LOVE WILL FLOAT THROUGH THE AIR WHEREVER YOUR MEMORY LIE.....I LOVE YOU AND I WILL MISS YOU....GOD HAS A TRUE ANGEL BESIDE HIM WATCHING OVER US AND YOUR MEMORY WILL LIVE ON....SO GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AND YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WILL FOREVER BE IN MY PRAYERS NOW AN MANY MORE YEARS TO COME....
Maya Stroud
December 19, 2009
I will continue to pray for this family and Toya you will be truly missed. May you rest in peace!
Class of 98
Willie Hutchings
December 19, 2009
Please except my deepest sympathy. She was the sweetest person. A smile and laugh that brought joy to many.
Class of 98'
Sabrina Wallace-Parker
December 18, 2009
I not only knew this very sweet girl from school, but i also got the chance to take care of her in the hospital. I remember a time where she cried and a time when she smiled. I know now she is somewhere smiling down on us all. I will always love and miss her.
December 18, 2009
You will surley be missed and It was a pleasure to have met and know you. YOu were always so happy and real and thats what I will miss most about you.
Courtney Heath
December 18, 2009
God makes no mistakes and although Toya you will be truly missed...family and friends may find comfort in the fact that you are no longer suffering. I know God welcomed you Home with open arms, and we'll see you again when we make it home.
Candice Walters
December 18, 2009
In the year of 1997, I was blessed to have been given the opportunity to accept Latoya as my drill team "big sis!" I will hold her beautiful smile and loving personality in my heart forever. My thoughts and prayers will give strength to the family and friends as we overcome this very difficult time. She will be dearly missed.
Frankie&Gerald Mitchell
December 18, 2009
Expressing our condolence to the Stephens Family. Our prayers are with you. "Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." Romans 8:37-39.
Kellye King
December 18, 2009
My heart goes out to this family right now. I will continue to lift you up in my prayers.
Carolyn Dudley
December 18, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Omeshia Christian-Writt
December 18, 2009
It seems like not that long ago we were in English class joking about how we were ready to graduate.=) But God has chosen to call you to come rest with him now. My thoughts and prayers are forever with your beloved family and friends in this time of grief.
Chenette Williams
December 18, 2009
I am still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that you are no longer here with us. It seems like just yesterday we were at Bramlette playing on the playground.
Toya was truly an Angel sent from above and she will be truly missed.
To the family, I pray that you find comfort and peace in God.
Class of '98
David Hayes
December 17, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
AnTonio Jones
December 17, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Nakena Bayless
December 17, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Kimberly Ross
December 17, 2009
It really is hard to put into words how much someone really means to you. Toya, you are and will always be my girl. I loved you more then you even knew. My heart aches for the loss of your friendship 11years you were in my life. My heart aches for the suffering of your family, however my heart rejoices for I know you are residing with the Lord. I'm going to miss you so much it won't be the same without you-Jackie,Sharita,Chenequee,Natalie, Latressa,Rachel and I will always keep your memories close to our hearts. We'll miss you our friend but only for a little while for we will meet again. Love you.
Rhonda Lewis
December 17, 2009
To Ruthie & Family:
My heart goes out to you and your family during and your time of bereavement.
I can remember Latoya as a viewette with such a beautiful smile. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
May God continue to bless you and your family.
Psalm 9:10
And those who know Your name will put their trust in You. For You,
O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.
Chauntae Kato
December 17, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. May you find comfort and peace in the arms of the Almighty God.
Talisha Reliford
December 17, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the family as you go through this difficult time. Toya was a sweet person, truly a gift from God.
Class of '98
Joe&Stephanie Manns
December 17, 2009
Sorry about your lost, but your family is in our prayers and hope God guide the family through this loss.
Armetha Adams
December 17, 2009
I first meet Toya when she was in college with my cousin (Natalie) and future sister-n-law (Latressa), and last saw her a few months ago at Natalie's house. She was a nice person and her presence will be missed by all.
Pashun Jackson Madden " P.J."
December 16, 2009
Toya your beautiful smile, your frienship, and your love will always be remembered. I love you and you will never be forgotten. Aunt Ruthie....you will always be in my heart & prayers and remember "God only takes the best"....love you.
Melinda Lucas Wiley
December 16, 2009
I just don't know how to express my feelings.. I have known you since Elementary School... Middle School, High School, then TJC...
I know you are resting now and although I am sad and want you here, your soul is in Gods heavenly Care. You are suffering no more, you have made it to the heavenly door. Because GOD called your name, and on home you quickly came. You are loved by many near and far, you will always be a special part of our heart. This is not something that we try to understand, because it was your time to take Jesus’ hand. By the grace of GOD I will see you in heaven, And that will be such a blessin’. ~ by Melinda
I know I didn’t see you much, but I already know that you know how I felt about you.. You are a sweet woman of god and it has been an honor and privilege to know you.. May you rest in peace my dear friend. See you in heaven!
To the family, May each of you find peace in the word of GOD..
Ecclesiastes 3:4 {A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;} Weep - because she gone away, Laugh and the fun times you shared, Mourn because she is no longer here on earth, Dance because she made it to heaven.
Kimberly Brown-Jones
December 16, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Toya and I were in Viewettes. She was a sweetheart!
Melinda
December 16, 2009
May the family find peace in the word of GOD..
Ecclesiastes 3:4 {A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;} Weep - because she gone away, Laugh and the fun times you shared, Mourn because she is no longer here on earth, Dance because she made it to heaven.
Melody (Silvertooth) Roney
December 16, 2009
I'm so sorry to hear about LaToya's passing. My prayers are with the family and all those who knew her well. Class of '98.
Melinda (Lucas) Wiley
December 16, 2009
I just don't know how to express my feelings.. I have known you since Elementary School... Middle School, High School, then TJC... but I do know that GOD is in control. And you belong to him, you always have.
I know you are resting now and although I am sad and want you here, your soul is in Gods heavenly Care. You are suffering no more, you have made it to the heavenly door. Because GOD called your name, and on home you quickly came. You are loved by many near and far, you will always be a special part of our heart. This is not something that we try to understand, because it was your time to take Jesus’ hand. By the grace of GOD I will see you in heaven, And that will be such a blessin’. ~ by Melinda
I know I didn’t see you much, but I know that you know how I felt about you.. You are a sweet woman of god and it has been an honor and privilege to know you.. May you rest in peace my dear friend. See you in heaven!
Fritz Beckworth
December 16, 2009
Sorry about your loss James and Ruthie. Just the few minutes I visited LaToya at Good Shepard it was obvious she was a very sweet young lady.You are in our prayers
Christopher Woods
December 16, 2009
A fallen angel from heaven came to earth. Now Its her time to be with her father again. You will be for ever miss. Class mate of 98.
Fershicka Williams-Lampkin
December 16, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
December 16, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief,please know if you need anything,we are here for you. We love you, Carl & Dorothy Finch
Fershicka Williams-Lampkin
December 16, 2009
There is not enough time in the day or words to express the friendship Toya and I had or what Toya meant to me. I have known Toya since 5th grade. I remember our Moms talking at football games,around town, discussing their children and life in general. I remember our brothers Boone and Chadd playing football from Jodie McClure to Longview High School days. I remember our walks and talks at the games, the movies, sleepovers at friends' houses, keeping in touch throughout college, and our discussions about life, children, and the right husband that must be God-fearing and walking upright. I remember the times you would cry and me telling you it will all work out for your good. I miss your voice, smile, and laugh(and when something was really funny how your nose turned red). Although we may not understand now and why or the timing for the call of your number, know (1)God knows what's best for his children, (2) he knows when his children simply cannot endure anymore, and (3) God is not a man that he should lie nor will his hand ever make a mistake for he is perfect and so is his plan. You are his angel and although we thought we may have had more time with you, when God called you home, it was his finished product-perfect in everyway. Now Toya your spirit rests high with God and may God's favor, mercy, and grace be more than enough to sustain your family in this darkest hour. May your name be lifted up in a positive manner and not in a negative way. My family and I will continuously keep your family in our prayers. No more suffering Toya. No more pain Toya. You will forever be loved,truly missed,and never forgotten.
With Love,
Fershicka Williams-Lampkin
Fershicka Williams-Lampkin
December 16, 2009
I have known Toya since 5th grade. I remember her sweet spirit, her smile and voice, our Moms talking at the games and around towns, and our brothers Boone and Chadd playing football from elementary to high school days. I miss your laugh and us walking around at our brothers' football games. I remember our talks about life, personal wants and goals, where we wanted to be in life at what age, if we wanted children, etc. We always took the time out to speak to each other whenever and wherever we saw each (at school, in the stores, around town, etc) and throughout college. I remember sleepovers we had at friends' houses. May God's favor, mercy, and grace be more than sufficient to sustain your family at this darkest hour. May your parents and brother rest heavily in the wings of the Almighty and though we may never fully understand why and the time or day God calls our number-always rest in knowing that (1) he knows what's best for his children, (2) he knows when we have suffered enough, and (3) he is not a man to lie or ever make a mistake with his hand. No more pain Toya. No more suffering Toya. May you always be spoken of in a positive way. My family and I will continuously keep you in our prayers.
Loved & missed
Fershicka Williams-Lampkin
Nick Lawson
December 16, 2009
May God's grace and peace comfort you all through this time. Toya truly will be missed.
Chimiya Polk
December 16, 2009
My heart goes out to you and the family at this time and in the days ahead.
Andretta Moore
December 16, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time..Latoya was such a beautiful person..We now have angel watching over us..Class of '98
December 16, 2009
Latoya, You were my baby's first crush. You will be missed.
Mona Tate, Bury St Edmunds, UK
Ramonia Houston
December 16, 2009
"It seemed like yesterday when I spoke to you in the mall...You were a were a very pretty lady inside and out..." My prayers and thoughts goes to the family!
December 16, 2009
Latoya was definitely an angel on earth she always had a smile on her face and never did or said anything negative towards anyone...she will be missed, and may GOD give the family strength and guidance during this time of bereavement :::::::tAkEtRA:::::::::
Darreia Williams
December 16, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of Grief. May memories bring you comfort. LaToya will truly be missed. Graduate of 98
Brandis Jamerson
December 16, 2009
Latoya was a beautiful person inside and out, and she will be missed. May the Lord provide your family with comfort and strength in your time of need.
Brandis Jamerson
December 16, 2009
Latoya was a beautiful young lady inside and out. Your family is in my prayers. May The Lord give your family comfort and peace in your time of need.
December 16, 2009
My condolences to the family. Pat Andrews (Longview, Tx)
December 16, 2009
You are in my prayers and she will be greatly missed she was a beautiful person. M. Ward
Nadriette Hardeman
December 16, 2009
"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die."
alicia taylor
December 16, 2009
Toya was the sweetest person I've ever met & she will truly be missed. She is in a better place now & take comfort in knowing God will take far better care of her now she is with Him. I am praying for your family.
~Alicia Taylor & family
Nadriette Hardeman
December 16, 2009
I love you Toya and know that your presence will be greatly missed. I am happy to know that you are with God and there is no more illness and worries. It has been a blessing to know you as you are one of the most big hearted persons I know. My prayers are with you all, family and friends.
Melissa Brown
December 16, 2009
Just know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
K. Martin
December 16, 2009
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Shequeta Allison
December 16, 2009
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
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