Dorothy Evelyn Stephens

Dorothy Evelyn Stephens, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, peacefully passed away on March 12, 2026, in Waco, Texas. Born on December 11, 1939, in Temple, Texas, Dorothy's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, faith, and an unwavering dedication to her family and home.

Dorothy was a woman of deep faith and immense compassion, known by all for her caring nature and open heart. She had a rare gift for making connections, never meeting a stranger, and embracing everyone she encountered with warmth, even when her ornery spirit shone through in moments of playful stubbornness. Her love for life in the country was evident in everything she did—whether reading a good book, tending to her yard with tender care, or delighting in the company of her animals.

Some of the fondest memories shared with the ones she loved were when they would gather around the table for her homemade meals, a testament to her nurturing soul. The holidays—Thanksgiving and Christmas—were special occasions she cherished deeply, filled with laughter, togetherness, and the aroma of her lovingly prepared dishes. Home was her sanctuary, a place she truly loved and where her heart found its fullest joy surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandson.

Dorothy took great pride in building a beautiful family, a legacy that shines brightly through those she leaves behind. She is survived by her daughters, Dottie Stephens and Nan Chestnut; her grandchildren, Shanna Kopp, Leah Karl and husband Robert; her great-grandchildren, Haley Campbell and husband Jonah, Kortney Dinscore and husband Ben, Alyssa Kopp, and Kadence Karl; and her cherished great-great-grandson, Lucas Dinscore; and sister, LaNell Mersiovsky; along with many nieces, nephews, friends.

Dorothy is preceded in death by the love of her life, Jerry Stephens, along with her parents James and Lorene Davis, her grandson Jerry John Chestnut, her brother James Davis, and sisters Doris Lowery and Mary Stanford.

Dorothy Evelyn Stephens will be remembered not just for the many roles she filled, but for the way she filled them—with grace, faith, and an enduring spirit that enriched the lives of all who knew her. Her care extended beyond family and friends to the very essence of her home and the land she loved, leaving a lasting impression of commitment and love.

As we remember Dorothy, we hold close the image of a woman who lived fully and loved deeply, whose legacy is etched in the hearts of those she cherished. Her journey may have come to a peaceful end, but the love and warmth she sowed continue to bloom in the lives of her family and community. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

Arrangements were entrusted to Lawson Funeral Home, Meridian, Texas 254-435-2792.