Carol Jeannette Stephens

Carol Jeannette Stephens of Houston, Texas, transitioned peacefully on May 2, 2023, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Carol was the second child born April 7, 1947, in Houston, Texas, to Albert B. Brown, Jr., and Essie Lee Kelly Brown. The family of six, two parents, and four children born into this union: Carl, Carol, Deborah, and Albert III. The couple also had an adopted son, Blair. Carol was baptized at an early age and attended Fifth Ward Baptist Church. Carol loved Jesus and her last church affiliation was at Windsor Village United Methodist Church until her health declined.

Carol graduated from Jack Yates High School in 1966 and soon thereafter, entered the workforce. Her first job was at the Groovey Grill and later served at Saint Anthony. However, Carol worked at the VA Hospital. She served as a Certified Nursing Assistant to veterans for 35 years until her health required her to retire in 2012. She took pride in everything she did and was always loving, caring and supportive to others. Carol was a dedicated nursing assistant and she loved serving the veterans. Often, Carol was characterized as a butterfly...landing on the shoulders of many with encouragement.

Carol married Billy A. Stephens in 1969 and no children were born to that union. In 1971, one daughter, Melanie Elaine Jones was born to Carol and Freddie L. Anderson. Melanie is Carol’s only and beloved child.

Carol enjoyed being outdoors, sitting outside, walking, taking care of her plants (she had a green thumb), going to the beach, crabbing, and taking pictures. Her favorite time was spent with her grandchildren, going on family vacations, and attending sport activities. Carol also listened to a variety of music and enjoyed going to concerts. Most of all, she loved taking care of her dogs.

Carol is survived by one daughter, Melanie Elaine Jones; her mother, Essie Kelly Brown; one brother, Carl Wesley Brown; one sister, Deborah A. Rochelle (Robert); and another brother, Blair Brown, Sr. She leaves one bonus sister, Angel Kai Jones (Kenneth); and several grandchildren: one grandson, Xavier Trevon Bonner (Linda), and 3 granddaughters, Kayla Janae Lewis, Ja’Lynn Zian Alise Buyckes, and Di’Mon Alexus Sampson; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, co-workers, and friends.

The following precede in death: her father, Albert B. Brown, Jr.; one brother, Albert B. Brown III; a bonus sister, Yvonnie Denise Alfred; and her maternal and fraternal grandparents.

A memorial service for Carol will be held Friday, May 12, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Paradise Funeral Home, Inc, 10401 West Montgomery, Houston, TX 77088.