Margaret Avery Stephenson

1935 - 2021

Margaret Avery Stephenson
August 9, 1935 - April 14, 2021
Resident of Carmel
Margaret ("Margi") Stephenson, age 85, passed away Wednesday, April 14, 2021, surrounded by her loving family, at her home in Carmel.
Born in 1935 in Palo Alto, Margi was the only child of Bessie ("Betty") and Kenneth Avery. She was a graduate of Stanford University and an ardent supporter of Stanford athletics, especially baseball and football, and spent many vacations centered around Stanford sports. Most importantly, while at Stanford, Margi met the love of her life and future husband, Jim ("Stevie") Stephenson. The couple married on December 19, 1955, and settled in Palo Alto where their four children were born. The family moved to Carmel in 1971 where she remained until her death. The family spent every summer since 1965 at their cabin in Lake Almanor - Margi's favorite spot on earth.
Throughout her life, Margi demonstrated her compassion for those who were less fortunate, for the environment, and social justice. She was a lifelong and dedicated volunteer for numerous causes and most recently volunteered for I-Help at St. Dunstan's, the Del Mesa library, and Monterey County Reads, a children's literacy program. Passionate about life, she was an avid cook, learner, reader, traveler, artist, and athlete; Margi continued to swim and play golf up until the last few months of her life. She inspired the love of all of these activities amongst her children and grandchildren.
Margi's huge heart, selfless demeanor and strong convictions will be fondly remembered by all who knew her as a truly devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She never missed a birthday or other special occasion and was actively involved in all family activities, such as, attending birthdays, graduations, concerts, and sporting events.
Margi is survived by her children: Marian Quade (Dave) of Waunakee, WI; Gail McFall (Jim) of Palo Alto; Lynne Meiers (Brian) of Lake Almanor; and Jim (Loretta) of Burlingame; fifteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Her husband preceded Margi in death.
Memorial celebration to be determined at a future date due to COVID-19. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: the Feather River Land Trust, the Equal Justice Initiative, or a charity of your choice.


View the online memorial for Margaret Avery Stephenson