Vera Stephens Obituary

Mrs. Vera Mae Stephens, age 74, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, October 6, 2024 in Muskegon, Michigan. On August 11, 1950, Vera was the 2nd born child to the union of Wade and Willie Dean (Henderson) Dunbar in Muskegon, Michigan. Vera graduated from Muskegon Heights Public Schools, class of 1968. In 1975, Vera married her childhood sweetheart, William "Sam" Stephens, for the first time, and again in 1997. Between them, they have six children. Vera was a homemaker for many years, serving as a 4H Leader for her daughters and an active PTO member. In 1980, Vera began her 30-year career at Hackley Hospital serving for the first 15 years as a cook in the cafeteria. In 1994, Vera joined Faith, Hope, and Love ministries, where she rededicated her life to Christ and quickly applied the principles of faith through prayer and action. Vera returned to school, and in 1997, she earned her associate degree from Baker College. Vera, while still working in the cafeteria, began training in diversity and started doing workshops for Hackley Hospital. Using her training and faith, Vera transitioned from the kitchen to the Human Resources Department as the Diversity Coordinator. She also served as a recruiter to get more black and brown people in the medical field in Muskegon County. Vera served as the board president of the Muskegon Family Center and board member for the United Way. Vera also trained individuals at the Institute of Healing Racism. Vera lived her life trusting God, praying for those in need and helping family and friends with shelter, food, and encouragement. Sometimes offering a peaceful place and fried catfish. She was ordained as minister and Pastor and served as a volunteer chaplain in Muskegon County. Vera is survived by her husband, William "Sam" Stephens; six children, Will Williams of Flint, MI, Laticia (Albert) Edmondson of Garland, TX, Patricia (Curtis) Patton Terrell of Fate, TX, Antonio (Dorienne) Stephens of Royse City, TX, Felicia (Anthony) Stephens Childers of Muskegon Heights, MI, and Vera (Christopher) Rowe of Muskegon, MI; 20 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Charles (Carmilla) Dunbar of Muskegon Heights, MI and Melvin (Ollie) Dunbar of Muskegon Heights, MI; brother-in-law, James Glasscock of Muskegon, MI; sister-in-law, Sandra Hopson of Muskegon Heights, MI; and her only living uncle, Oather Henderson of Detroit, MI. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wade and Willie Dunbar; brother, Tony Dunbar; and two nephews, Anthony Dunbar and Paul Hopson. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held 11:00 AM Monday, October 14, 2024 at Kingdom Embassy Covenant Church, 3025 Glenside Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441 with VISITATION one hour prior to her service at church. You may sign her online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.