Phyllis Irene Stephens

1932 - 2022

Phyllis Irene Steffen Stephens died Feb. 17, 2022 in Tavares FL at age 89. She was born in Bellingham MN March 5, 1932. Her mother died when she was 9. As the oldest of 6, she quickly learned to cook, take care of her siblings, clean the house and do farm chores. She graduated from Bellingham High School in 1950 and was the valedictorian. She became a teacher in Lac Qui Parle County rural schools and taught all 8 grades in a one-room school. Most students had German heritage. In 1961, she taught in the American School of United Fruit Co. in Progreso, Honduras. Many students were Latin Americans.

In 1963, Phyllis met and married Clyde Stephens in Progreso and La Lima, Honduras. Clyde was transferred to banana research in Bocas del Toro, Panama, where they lived for 10 years. Phyllis continued teaching at Changuinola. Their children Linda (1965) and Carl (1966) were born in the company hospital in the banana port of Almirante. The family enjoyed a country club life in Farm 8, banana plantations and the wilds of the rain forests, rivers, islands and beaches in the Province.

In 1973, the family transferred to the banana port of Golfito, Costa Rica, for 9 years where she taught. In 1982, the family transferred across the border to Puerto Armuelles, Panama, where Phyllis taught for the same banana company, later named Chiquita Brands International.

Linda and Carl attended high school at Montverde Academy in Florida. Meanwhile, Clyde and Phyllis were sent to La Lima, Honduras, where Phyllis once again taught.

In 1991, the couple retired to a solar-powered home at Hospital Point in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Eventually, they settled in Tavares, FL where she was active with the Lake County Womans Club and was honored as Woman of the Year. Phyllis was also president of Tavares Garden Club. She was a renowned cook of tropical foods.

Phyllis taught hundreds of American and Latin American students in the Tropics. Many graduated from universites. She was proud that several of her students held high positions in the Panama Canal.

She was predeceased by her parents Richard and Mabel Witte Steffen, 2 brothers Albert and Richard, a sister Lorelei, and half brother Gary. Phyllis is survived by sisters Judy Redepenning, Darlene Rebehn and half sister Joann Maynard. Daughter Linda Radcliffe and husband James live in Lake Co. Son Carl and Myra Stephens and their daughters Ashley and Nikole and husband Austin live in Orlando.

A memorial was held at Trout Lake Nature Center in Eustis FL March 5th. Her ashes were buried at New Zion Baptist Church in west Hardee Co. FL on March 26, 2022. Phyllis, we will always miss you and love you forever.