Born on November 12, 1932, “Ned”, as she was fondly called by her family and friends, lived life to the fullest. She will be remembered for her love and devotion to both family and her friends. Ned believed it was important that she led by example - below is a quote she lived by – “A family is made happier, gentler and stronger by the special women in it. Your outlook on life and your gift for caring deeply makes you a remarkable woman!”
Ever the optimist, people gravitated towards Ned’s fun and generous personality. She loved being with family and friends; from Thanksgiving dinners, fun-filled family Christmases, get togethers at the lake, sailing trips, scavenger hunts and auctions. She was involved in her children’s hobbies and interests, the local garden club and bridge group, but in the Fall, Ned’s passion was Clemson’s football. She attended the Tigers National Championships in 1981, 2016 and 2018. We are sure she will be wearing orange in heaven!
Ned was the second of two children, William (brother), born to Ruth Swaney Kingzett and William Edward Kingzett in Cleveland, Ohio. While 12 years old, Ned delivered the local newspaper until girls were told they could no longer deliver papers. She graduated in1950 from Brush High in suburban Cleveland and went on to Hiram College. She graduated in 1954 with a degree in Elementary Education. While at Hiram, Ned went on a blind date with Richard “Dick” Stofan, she a cheerleader and he a football star. After eloping in December 1952, they shared countless lifelong adventures. Their 70 years together included 22 moves – living in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Florida, North Carolina and finally settling in Greenville, South Carolina. Early in their marriage, Dick and Ned lived in Pensacola, Florida while Dick was at the Naval Air Station. While in Pensacola, they had their first child, a daughter, and in later years three sons. Together they would see much of the world, raise their children and enjoy many lifelong associations and friendships.
Ned was preceded in death by husband Richard Henry Stofan and son John Daniel. She is survived by her 3 children, Becky (Don) Godbey, Scott (Suzanne) Stofan and Doug Stofan. She was dearly loved as “Grandy” by 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Her family and friends will forever cherish her memory and the profound impact she had on their lives.
In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to the “Stofan Family Scholarship” at Greenville Tech Foundation. PO Box 5616, MS 6002 Greenville, SC 29606-5616. This scholarship fund will ensure that Ned and Dick’s passion for education and dedication to the community continue to make a difference in the lives of future generations.
A memorial service will be held at Mackey Funerals and Cremations – Woodlawn Memorial Park 1 Pine Knoll Drive, Greenville, South Carolina at 11:00 am Monday, November 25, 2024, followed immediately by a “Celebration of Ned’s Life”.
Fond memories, photos, and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mackeywoodlawn.com for the Stofan family.
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