Christa Stephens

In Loving Memory of Christa Noel Stephens
November 26, 1975 – May 3, 2025
Christa Noel Stephens passed away on May 3, 2025, at the age of 49. Born on November 26, 1975, in Charleston, South Carolina, to Richard Stephens and Deborah Stephens (Perry), Christa was a vibrant, unforgettable soul whose presence lit up every room she entered.
A proud 1993 graduate of Hillcrest High School, Christa lived life boldly and unapologetically. To know her was to encounter a force of nature-ambitious, passionate, and endlessly creative. She launched her entrepreneurial journey at just 22 with her own car detailing business and later followed her heart into the beauty industry. At 32, she enrolled at Paul Mitchell The School Springfield, where she quickly excelled, earning a place in the elite "Phase Two Honors" program. She graduated at the top of her class in 2010, defying convention not only through her artistry but as a left-handed stylist thriving in a right-handed world.
Christa's talents and passions were as diverse as they were inspiring. She shined in her early years as a barrel racer, gymnast, and cheerleader. Later, she graced the runway at Paris Fashion Week and found peace kayaking alongside her beloved animals. Her bond with animals ran deep-her rescued dogs, cats, and especially her flock of chickens, lovingly known as "the Gertrudes," were part of her family. She had an instinctive gift for nurturing anything in need of care.
In 2009, Christa met the love of her life, Case Howard. Their relationship-rich in laughter, adventure, and mutual respect-led to a dreamlike seaside wedding in Hawaii in 2017. Together, they built a life filled with love, purpose, and shared ambition.
A fierce advocate for women in business, Christa was deeply committed to lifting others up in the beauty industry. She often returned to her alma mater to mentor students and create opportunities for aspiring stylists. Her expertise in Brazilian Blowouts and Paul Mitchell color earned national recognition, and she was a familiar face in 417 Magazine. As the visionary behind Inviktus Salons, Loxsmith, Get Girl Fridays, and co-owner of The Black Lab Coffee Co. with Case, Christa left an indelible mark on her community and her craft.
She was preceded in death by her grandfather and her uncle, Gerald Perry.
Christa is survived by her devoted husband, Case Howard, and their beloved son, Cameron Howard; her mother, Debby, and her fiancé, Paul Gaston; her father, Rick Stephens, and his wife, Faith-East Stephens; her grandmother, Norma Perry; and her in-laws, Debby and JC Howard. She is also lovingly remembered by extended family members including Waylon, Wayne, Colt, and their families; her stepsister, Tammy Hunter; and stepbrother, Jason East. She leaves behind her soul sister, Jessi Wehrman, and her husband, Caleb, along with a cherished circle of salon staff, dear friends, and countless clients who became like family.
Christa's light, generosity, and creative spirit will forever be remembered by all who were lucky enough to know her.