Stella Mae Ison

Stella Mae Ison, born February 15, 1941, passed away peacefully at her home in Isom, Kentucky, on January 12, 2025, due to a series of medical complications. She was surrounded by loved ones, along with caregiver and hospice support.
A lifelong resident of Isom, Stella was raised in a large and close-knit family by her parents, Jeff and Hattie Adams Ison and her ten siblings. She cherished her time spent with them, sharing family stories and making their annual family reunions a treasured tradition.
Stella graduated from Stuart Robinson High School and went on to earn a degree in Education from Pikeville College. She dedicated her career to teaching Health and Physical Education at Letcher Elementary and High School until her retirement. Even after retiring, she continued to serve as a substitute teacher. Stella's passion for education was evident in her tireless efforts as a mentor to young teachers and an inspiration to countless students. She also served as a cheerleading sponsor, senior trip sponsor, and coach for girls' volleyball and basketball teams. Her commitment to going the extra mile left an indelible mark on those she taught and worked alongside.
Beyond her professional life, Stella found joy in traveling with family and friends, with Gatlinburg, Tennessee, being one of her favorite destinations. She loved the hosting of family meals, birthday celebrations, and Christmas gatherings with her mother. Playing Rook was an especially enjoyed past time. She was an avid sports fan who loved cheering on UK basketball and local high school teams. Stella shared these interests and her passion for education with her long time friend Linda Jarrett.
Stella was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings Agnes Terrill, Venus Amburgey, Vedis Combs, Hargis Ison, Danis Ison, Delmus Ison, Betty Breeding, Clarence Ison, and Jeff Ison Jr.; as well as many of their spouses.
Stella is survived by her sister Ann Wallace and a host of nieces and nephews, including great and great greats. She took immense pride in the accomplishments of her many nieces and nephews, always making each feel uniquely special and deeply loved.
Stella Mae Ison's legacy of dedication, kindness, and love will be cherished by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those she touched throughout her remarkable life.
Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 1:00 O'clock P.M. at the Letcher Funeral Home Chapel with Roy Slone and Mike Eldridge officiating. Burial will follow in the Isom Cemetery at Isom, Kentucky. Visitation will start at 11:00 O'clock A.M. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the Letcher Funeral Home Chapel.
In lieu of flowers donations are suggested to the Greg and Noreen Wells Hospice Care Center in Hazard, Kentucky.