Carol Ann (Mowry) Stephens

Carol Ann (Mowry) Stephens passed away on Sunday, November 20, 2016 at her home in Hoxie, Kansas at the age of 81. She was born April 24, 1935 in rural Sheridan County, Kansas to the late Eugene and Pearl (Kreft) Mowry. Raised with four brothers and one sister, she attended Tasco Elementary School and graduated from Sheridan Community High School with the Class of 1952. She went on to attend one year of college. On January 24, 1956 she was united in marriage to Donald R. Stephens at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Seguin, Kansas. They were blessed with three children. Carol was a loving housewife and mother. A life-long learner and student of “life,” she loved to read and study, especially history; she had the drive and curiosity to keep herself well educated. Always interested in traveling, she even became a certified travel agent. She also worked in Mrs. T’s and Mrs. D’s Dress Shops. A hard worker, Carol found plenty to keep her busy, and of course knew how to find time to relax and enjoy life. From gardening and raising flowers to silk embroidery, she never had idle hands. No palooka, she was an avid bridge player. But the time she cherished most was when it was spent with family and friends, whether playing cards, visiting, or just relaxing together. Carol is survived by her son Russell E. Stephens and wife Tyra of Merriam; daughters Kimberly A. Stephens of Roanoke, VA, and Suzann P. Demple and husband Paul of Sheridan, WY; brothers Richard Mowry and wife Donna of Morland, Robert Mowry of Brookline, MA and Ralph Mowry of Colby: sister Helen William and husband Don of Hoxie; 13 Grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Eugene and Pearl Mowry, husband Donald Stephens, and brother Pat Mowry. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, November 28, 2016, at Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home in Hoxie. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date. Visitation will be from Noon -7:00pm on Sunday at the funeral home. The family will receive friends from 5:30 pm until 7:00 pm. Memorials are suggested to the Sheridan County Library and may be sent in care of Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, P.O. Box 987, Hoxie, KS 67740. Online condolences may be left at www.mickeyleopoldfuneral.com Immensely interesting and lovable, Carol had a wonderful sense of humor that allowed her to see the laughable in life’s everyday absurdities. Never one to be bitter or whiny, she taught all of us how to have a good laugh, get through tough periods, and remain optimistic no matter what. Her love, smile, and encouragement will continue in our hearts forever.