Sandra Jo Stephens

Sandra Jo Stephens, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and aunt, away peacefully on October 31 2024, in Dayton, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 4, 1944, in Texas City, Sandra lived a life rich with family faith, and community involvement.

 Sandra's educational journey began in Highlands, where she attended Highlands Junior High and later graduated from Bay Robert E. Lee High School, class of 1962. She also spent a year furthering her education at Lee College. Her commitment to her community was evident in her active participation as a Dayton High School Band Booster and a member of the Dayton PTA. Sandra's passion for music shone through as she sang in the church choir at First Methodist Church of Dayton, where she had been a devoted member since 1976.

 In addition to her significant contributions to her community, Sandra took immense pride in serving as the "First Lady" of Dayton for six years while her husband, Steve Stephens, held the office of Mayor. Her legacy as a leader extended beyond that role; she was also a proud member of the Lamda Alpha Sigma Sorority.

 Sandra is survived by her beloved husband of 60 years, Steve Stephens; her two daughters, Angelia Hanel and her husband Brian, and Teresa Fatheree and her husband Freddie; and her cherished grandchildren, Joshua Almeida, Megan Mahaffey and her husband Austin, Jacob Fatheree and his wife Taylor, Jordan Almeida, and Hayden Fatheree. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Hudson Charles Mahaffey. Additionally, Sandra is survived by her sister, Melinda Reidland and her husband David, along with numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends who will miss her dearly.

 She was preceded in death by her parents, George Samuel Diehl and Lula Frank Ferguson Diehl, as well as her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Harrell R. Stephens and Gladys O'Dell Stephens.

 Visitation will be held on November 3, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home, located at 1304 N Cleveland St, Dayton, TX 77535. A funeral service in her honor will take place the following day, November 4, 2024, at 1:00 PM at First Methodist Church of Dayton, located at 106 S Cleveland St, Dayton, TX 77535. Burial will follow at Magnolia Park Cemetery in Dayton.

 Sandra Jo Stephens will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her love for her community, and the many lives she touched throughout her journey. Everyone who knew Sandra, loved her because of her kind and gentle spirit and beautiful smile. Her legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire all who knew her.