Edith Louise Stephenson

Edith Louise Horton Stephenson was a woman of quiet strength, unwavering consistency, and deep compassion. She showed a deep concern for others, always finding ways to help those around her. Her kindness extended to everyone, through her dedication to family, service in the community, and deep faith.

Born on June 18, 1926, the youngest of 13 children, Louise learned the value of hard work early, taking on responsibilities like milking cows after her father passed away when she was just eight years old. Despite the hardships of the Great Depression, her family always managed to provide for themselves, instilling in her a deep sense of resourcefulness.

Her love for the land continued after she married Elmer “H” Stephenson in 1948. They raised cattle and lived in the country, where Louise helped care for the animals, handled daily chores, and walked up to two miles a day until her health made it impossible. Louise persevered with grace, even in the face of hardship, including the tragic loss of their son, Herstel Lynn, in a tractor accident.

Louise’s quiet faith became a cornerstone of her life. Though she joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints later in life, her understanding of its teachings and her desire for eternal families led her to embrace its principles. She found great support in her faith community and was always concerned for those she cared about.

Louise worked hard throughout her life, whether at Sunshine Bakery, the Balch Springs Water District, or on the family farm. She was a woman who believed in doing whatever was needed, without complaint, and always with a spirit of service.

Her strength and resilience were evident not only in her work but also in her ability to face challenges with humor and courage. She met personal loss, caring for family, and the trials of life with unwavering faith, trusting in God to guide her through it all.

Louise’s legacy is one of love, service, and determination. Her family and friends will carry her memory in their hearts, and her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched.

Louise, 98, of Mabank, passed away on Feb. 11, 2025. She is survived by nieces Joyce Colegrove, Mineola; Delorus DeFrancesco, California; Jeannette (Tom) McPherson, Crandall; Brenda (Tony) Hardin, Mabank; Betty (Robert) Nickelson, Mabank; Becky Gaddis, Malakoff; and Glenese Horton; and nephews Lanny (Cindy) Gaddis, Mabank; Billy Horton, Dallas; Richard Horton, Ft. Worth; Arnold Kaufman, California; and numerous great nephews and nieces.

Louise was preceded in death by her husband Elmer (“H”) Herstel Stephenson; their son, Herstel Lynn Stephenson; her parents, Edd Arafax Horton and Lula Paradine Mask; her 12 siblings, Edward, Tobe, Martha, James, Beulah, Texas, Ruth, Edna, Winnie, Levi, Richard, and William “Bert”.

A celebration of life service is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Anderson-Clayton Funeral Home in Kemp. Prior to the service, visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Louise will be buried at Grove Hill Cemetery in Dallas following the service.

Pallbearers include great nephews Richard Gaddis, Jeff Gaddis, Brady Cox, Milton Spears, Mason Spears, and David Horton.