Mary Ann Stephens

Obituary

Mary Ann (Caldwell) Stephens

(May 15, 1942 – December 25, 2024)

 

Mary Ann (Caldwell) Stephens, was born in Dothan, Alabama, and was a 1960 graduate of Warren G. Harding High School. She was a remarkable individual whose life was characterized by her deep faith, creativity, and commitment to serving others. Her parents, the late Herbert Daniel Caldwell Sr. and Thelma (Saffold) Caldwell taught her about love, perseverance, and laid the foundation of spirituality.

After retiring from Packard Electric, where she dedicated 30 years of service, Mary accepted her calling in ministry that truly defined her legacy. Mary transitioned into a role that aligned more closely with her passions and calling. Her co-pastorship at The Potter’s House Church was not merely a job; it was a vocation that allowed her to share her faith and connect with people on a deeper level. Mary and Rev. Gerald Stephens’ initiatives, like the prayer line and various drives, showcased their commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around them.

Mary’s creativity was boundless, and her spiritual gifts extended beyond the church walls. She expressed her artistic talent through various mediums, including writing, painting, and crafting. Her newspaper, *The Good News and Hope*, served as a platform for sharing uplifting stories and messages, while her book, *Prophecy in Poems*, showcased her poetic abilities and her deep relationship with faith. Her creations, such as the prayer pillows and postcards, were not just artistic endeavors; they were a heartfelt reflection of her life. She literally spent hours upon hours each day calling out individual names written on her own prayer pillows. Her dedication to prayer was a hallmark of her character; she was a steadfast intercessor for countless people.

Known as a fashionista, Mary had an eye for style and aesthetics, which she applied not only to her wardrobe but also in her work as an interior decorator. Her feature in Jet Magazine’s beauty section in the 1960’s, stands as a testament to her vibrant personality and her love for beauty in all its forms.

Family was at the core of Mary’s life. Her relationship with her husband, Rev. Gerald Stephens, was built on mutual respect and shared values, fostering a partnership that thrived in their ministry. Following his stroke in 2004, she was his full-time care giver for more than 11 years. As a mother, she was encouraging, instilling in her daughters a love for music and creating harmonies. In her final hours, her daughters felt her spirit transitioning to join God’s heavenly choir as they sang “O Come All Ye Faithful” in her hospital room on Christmas Eve.

In her later years, Mary’s health challenges did not diminish her spirit. Instead, they seemed to deepen her faith and resolve. The love and support she received from her family and community were a testament to the lives she touched throughout her life. Her passing marks a profound loss, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she inspired.

Mary will be remembered not only for her contributions as a pastor, wife, artist, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend but also for the love she radiated and the faith she exemplified. Her legacy of intercession, service, creativity, and compassion will continue to inspire future generations.

On Christmas Day, December 25, 2024, at 2:20 a.m. with her oldest daughter by her side, she joined the ‘Alto’ section of God’s heavenly choir. We are certain that she is singing the hallelujah chorus at this very moment!

Mary is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Rev. Gerald W. Stephens, daughters Deridree Denise Howard and Mary Ellen Burston (Fred), and son Ronald Ellison Broome Jr. (Tiffany). Stepchildren: Marea Joyce and Jermone Stephens. She was a proud grandmother to Larry Howard Jr., Britney Patterson, Lauren Nkengjeba (Achangu), Donovan Howard (Lo), Kennedie Burston, Mikayla Broome, Joshua Broome, Hannah Broome, Ariana Brown, and Devon Young Jr., as well as thirteen great-grandchildren.

Mary is also survived by her siblings: Callie Brown, Barbara Goliday, and Herbert Daniel Caldwell Jr. (Brenda). She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Tom Caldwell, and her son Devon Young Sr.