Essie Beatrice Stephens

God’s Grace The Life of Essie Beatrice Stephens   Born in Hosston, Louisiana on February 3, 1919 to Price Edward and Lucinda McClain Lyles Married Luther Hopson Stephens on January 28, 1939 (Luther died June 23, 1970) Gave birth to three daughters and, with her husband, nurturingly, reared to adulthood their daughters: Mrs. Edward Louise Stephens Peters (Died September 24, 2005) Mrs. Agnes Marie Stephens Parham Dr. Erma Maxine Stephens Ballenger A loving grandmother; great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother who traveled to and shared in every major milestone event in all the children’s lives. She was affectionately called “Grammy” or “GGG” She was the life enriching mother-by-mutual-choice to Ms. Rosetta Mayes A faithful, active member of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church for 80 years. She was recognized and honored as a Mother of Good Hope. Until retirement, she was employed as a housekeeper for several families She was an excellent seamstress – designed, sewed, and altered clothing – from children’s attire to elegant wedding gowns She enjoyed quilting, and taught others how to quilt She was a skillful gardener and shared the harvest with her neighbors In earlier years, she was actively engaged in civic activities in the Independence Heights neighborhood   Essie Beatrice Stephens’ Life was a Testament to God’s Grace