Patricia M. Stephens

Patricia M. Stephens, lovingly known to family and friends as Tricia or Pat, passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on October 4, 2025, in Griffin, Georgia.

Born on June 1, 1940, in Greenville, Georgia, to Ed and Lucile Massengale, she was a gentle, thoughtful soul whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. She was most often described as sweet, kind, and authentic, and her loving spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

A graduate of Greenville High School, Class of 1958, Patricia played basketball for the Blue Devils, where her love of sports first took root. She carried that passion throughout her life as an avid sports fan-especially cheering on the Atlanta Braves-and as a longtime recreational basketball coach in the community, coaching her daughters and inspiring young players with her patience and encouragement.

She married the love of her life, Clifford Lee "Steve" Stephens, Jr., and together they shared 60 years of marriage, building a home filled with laughter, faith, and unconditional love. She was preceded in death by her parents, her eleven siblings, and her beloved husband. Her legacy of love continues to shine brightly through her family and the many lives she touched.

Patricia devoted over 25 years to the William Carter Company before her retirement. She and her husband also cherished the fellowship and friendships they found through their service with the VFW Post 5448 and the Griffin Moose Lodge. They were both avid dancers and Patricia was known as the party starter at the monthly DJ Douglas dance party at The Woods Senior Living where she resided for the past 3 years.

Above all, Patricia was a devoted sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is affectionately remembered by her children, Preston Stephens, Cyndy Stephens Stone (Gene), and Liz Stephens King (Marty); grandchildren Kaleb O'Hara, Hillary Owens (Erick), Emily Stephens, Abigail Layfield (Chris), Madeline Stephens, and Jackson Stone; and great-grandchildren Olivia and Jillian Owens, Parker, Rylee, and Aubree Layfield. She also leaves behind many cherished cousins, nieces and nephews who will forever remember her gentle spirit and kind heart.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life during visitation on Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 3:00–5:00 PM and at a service on Monday, October 13th at 11:00 at Conner-Westbury Funeral Home, followed by burial at Westwood Gardens.