Celebrating the life of
Janice Hart Stephens
October 08, 1936 - December 04, 2009
Janice Anita Hart Stephens, 73, died December 4, 2009 at Hospice House, after a long struggle with cancer. She was a member of Bull Street Baptist Church and the Nelson Sunday School Class.
She was born October 8, 1936, in Savannah, Georgia, the daughter of Frederick Henry Hart and Olive Mable Cole Hart. As a young girl she was active as a Brownie Scout and a Girl Scout. She was a member of the GA's at Morningside Baptist Church where she and her family were members for many years and where she was baptized. She was educated in the public school system of Savannah, attending Waters Avenue School, Moore Avenue School, Chatham Junior HS, and Savannah HS, graduating in June, 1954. She attended the University Hospital School of Nursing in Augusta, Ga. She was employed as a medical assistant to Dr. Harold M Smith until her marriage to her high school sweetheart, Roger DeWitt Stephens in 1956 and they moved to Atlanta where he was employed as an engineer. In Atlanta she was employed by the Atlanta Gas Light Company in the customer service department.
Janice became a full time homemaker and stay at home mom with the birth of David, the first of her 3 sons. Sons Jeff and Wade soon followed and she became the typical taxi shuttle mom for Boy Scouts, baseball, soccer, band, etc, and she loved every minute. She and her husband were co-Presidents of the North Cobb HS Band Booster Club and chaired many fund raising projects for the band. Three of her proudest moments as a mother were when each of her sons graduated from Georgia Tech. Surrounded at home by engineers, she liked to refer to herself as a "domestic engineer".
Janice was also proud of her Salzburger and German heritages and she was a lifetime member of the Georgia Salzburger Society. While living in the Atlanta area she was a member of the Greater Atlanta Chapter of the GSS and served on the Board of Directors there. After 44 years in the Atlanta area the last 27 years in Kennesaw and her husband's retirement, they returned home in 2000 to Savannah, where she immediately became active in the founding chapter of the Georgia Salzburger Society in Rincon. She has served several terms as a Director of the GSS, served on the Museum Committee, was a docent at the museum and served as the museum's Assistant Curator. She has traveled to Austria and Germany on several occasions to visit the home villages of her ancestors.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Norman DeLeon Knight and Frederick "Freddie" H. Hart, Jr.
Survivors: Husband, Roger Dewitt Stephens, of Savannah; Sons and daughters in-law, David W. and Debra Stephens of Richmond Hill; Jeffrey D. and Melonie Stephens of Simpsonville, SC; Wade H. and Helen Stephens of McKenny, TX; sister in-law, Carlyle Knight of Birmingham, Alabama; brother in-law, Ronald Stephens of Savannah; sister in-law and brother in-law, Lynn and David Parker of Savannah; brother in-law and sister in-law, Ben and Karen Stephens of Lawrenceville, Ga.; grandchildren, Gregory, Bradley, Emily, Anna, and Katina; many loving nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday, December 7, 2009 at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.
Funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 8, 2009 in the Hodgson Chapel of Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors.
Burial will be in Hillcrest Abbey Memorial Park.
Remembrances: In-lieu-of flowers, donations may be made to the GSS Museum, 2980 Ebenezer Road, Rincon, GA 31326; Bull Street Baptist Church Building Fund, 17 East Anderson Street, Savannah, GA 31401; or to Hospice Savannah, PO Box13190, Savannah, GA 31416.
Please sign our on-line guestbook at www.foxandweeks.com
Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
Roger, Wade, Sara and I are so sad to hear about Jan's passing. The news just filtered to me and I'm sorry for the late entry. You friendship has always had a special place in my heart. You guys have had a tremendous influence on my life, and I model my service to my son's bands after the way 'jan and Roger' would do it. Sara and I stand ready to help in any way we can. our thoughts and prayers are with you. Barry & Sara Morgan
- Barry Morgan, Kennesaw, GA
He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds' Psalm 147:3 We are so thankful for the memories that have grown more meaningful with every passing year and even now, more treasured. Jan was a true role model for any young lady to pattern her life by.
- Tom and Aboungleen King, Rockmart, GA
God bless your family. I have many fond memories and still love you all.
- John F. Morgan, Vidalia, GA
Wade, Helen, and Mr. Stephens, I'm so sorry to hear of your mother's passing, please accept my condolences. My memories of your mom are always in my heart, especially the way she could shop for a new wardrobe with $20! Her smile and her 'Janism's' will always be remembered. You and your family are in my prayers.
- Marsha Herrera Huelsbeck, Norcross, GA
I am so sad to learn about the passing of Jan. I have such sweet, tender, and fond memories of her. She was the very model of a kind and charming woman, and I will always remember her so. Our lives were richer for knowing her. I send my love and condolences to the family.
- Steven Byess, Denver, CO
To the Stephens family: I was so sad to learn of Jan's passing. I remember Mr. and Mrs. Stephens being at all of our band functions when I went to school with Wade. Truly a great family! My prayers are with you all.
- Tracie Silvers Parker, Hampton, GA
What a great lady. She made our move to GA so much easier 15 years ago. She was also my mentor in learning how to crochet. We'll never forget her display of Nutcrackers at Christmas. She'll be missed. Prayers for Roger and the family.
- Marsha & Larry Kolar, Acworth, GA
Jeff, Sorry to hear of your loss. I pray she finds the peace she deserves after such a long battle with cancer.
- Ryan Bianchi, , SC
Roger, David & Debra, Jeff & Mel, Wade & Helen, and families, I was so saddened to learn this past weekend of your loss. I have vivid memories of Jan from our high school years and they all contain her infectious smile; most bear her laugh as well. What a delightful soul. I truly count myself blessed to have known her. I'm sorry that Candice and I cannot be there to offer our support but will certainly continue to pray from here. Love to you all, Mac Worley
- Mac Worley, Kennesaw, GA
Wade, Helen, Anna, and Katina, We are all so saddened to hear of the passing of Wade's mother. You are always in our thoughts and now will be in our prayers as well. We miss you all so much!
- Tracy Jacobs, Forest Hill, MD, MD
Jeff and Mel, David, Wade and family - please accept my heartfelt condolences om the passing of your mother. I, too, have fond many memories of our times at your house or being shuffled around by your parents. Many fond memories of middle and high school band and other outings, and your mom was always around. All the best to you all. Tom and Missy Randall Kennesaw, GA
- Tom Randall, Kennesaw, GA
Roger, We are so sorry for your loss. We have so many memories of times spent at your house back in the band days. You and Jan were always such gracious hosts. Pleas know that we are thinking of you.
- Mike and Laura Boatner, Dallas, GA
Memories of time spent with Roger and Jan become all the more valuable at this time.
- Thomas Buck, Marietta, GA
Dear Roger, Jeff, Melonie, David and Wade, I was saddened to hear of your loss. I have such wonderful memories of Jan. She was such a kind charming person. I feel so lucky to have known her. She just had this sparkle about her. My thoughts are with you all. With love, Bob Dorer
- Bob Dorer, Minneapolis, MN
All of the Stephens Family; We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Jan. Our condolences go out to the entire family. Our 50+ year close association of our friends Roger and Jan has been our longest friendship. We will miss a great lady, mother and member of a true Southern family. We continue our support of Roger,Ron and all the family. Liz and I will see all of you at the service to honor this special lady.
- Jim and Elizabeth Sasser, Aiken, SC
To all of the wonderful Stephens, Jan was a very special lady. She was beautiful. Her true beauty was inside of her heart. As long as I can remember, she was always kind and friendly to all. Jan, you are missed and loved. Eleanor and Bob Rawls
- Bob and Eleanor Blackshear Rawls, Waynesville 31566, GA
Wade,Helen and girls, Our deepest sympathy go out to your whole family! Love, Bill,Mary,George and Dimitri Roros
- Roros, Bel Air, MD
Roger and family, Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Jan, like her mother, was one of the sweetest people to ever enter our lives. She will be deeply missed. Julia, Kate and Morgan Taylor
- Julia Taylor, Savannah, GA
Jeff and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very sad time. May God watch over you and your family. Vickie Theis Colleague of Jeff's
- Vickie Theis, Greer, SC
There are no doubts, after working with Jeff for several years, that Janice was a woman of noble character and a fine mother. My heart goes out to you all for your loss and I pray the loving arms of our Lord and Savior will comfort you until the pain subsides and precious memories take over. Sincerely, Suzy
- Suzy Tuske, Greer, SC
Jeff and Family, please accept my condolenses on the death of your mom. I know that she will be missed but she is in a better place. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Ursula
- Ursula Gibbs, Greer, SC
Wade, Helen, Anna, and Katina, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in our prayers during this difficult time. We miss you tons. With our deepest sympathy....
- Brian and Kitty Young and Family, Forest Hill, MD
Roger and the rest of the Stephens Family, Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. We were very glad to have gotten to know Jan over the years. Jan was a very sweet and loving lady. We enjoyed getting to spend time at the beach together. It was wonderful for her to be part of our family. With Love, Trifon, Katina, Chris, and Larry
- The Petcos Family: Trifon, Katina, Chris, and Larry, Pittsburgh, PA
Dear Roger, David & Debra, Jeff & Mel, Wade & Helen, and families, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of our sweet Jan. The Stephens family will always have a special place in our hearts and we are blessed to have known and worked with you during the North Cobb years. Jan always represented the epitome of southern grace, charm and compassion. We regret that we cannot be there with you to offer our support but will continue to keep the family in our prayers and remember the good times shared. Much love to you all.
- Scott & Stephanie Ragsdale, Marietta, GA
Hey buddie, Me and Linda were so sorry to hear of Jan's passing.She was such a sweet lady and I'm sure she is with the Lord. Roger we are next door and will always be there for you. We love you Victor and Linda.
- Victor Deen, savannah, GA
Roger, Wade, Sara and I are so sad to hear about Jan's passing. The news just filtered to me and I'm sorry for the late entry. You friendship has always had a special place in my heart. You guys have had a tremendous influence on my life, and I model my service to my son's bands after the way 'jan and Roger' would do it. Sara and I stand ready to help in any way we can. our thoughts and prayers are with you. Barry & Sara Morgan
- Barry Morgan, Kennesaw, GA
He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds' Psalm 147:3 We are so thankful for the memories that have grown more meaningful with every passing year and even now, more treasured. Jan was a true role model for any young lady to pattern her life by.
- Tom and Aboungleen King, Rockmart, GA
God bless your family. I have many fond memories and still love you all.
- John F. Morgan, Vidalia, GA
Wade, Helen, and Mr. Stephens, I'm so sorry to hear of your mother's passing, please accept my condolences. My memories of your mom are always in my heart, especially the way she could shop for a new wardrobe with $20! Her smile and her 'Janism's' will always be remembered. You and your family are in my prayers.
- Marsha Herrera Huelsbeck, Norcross, GA
I am so sad to learn about the passing of Jan. I have such sweet, tender, and fond memories of her. She was the very model of a kind and charming woman, and I will always remember her so. Our lives were richer for knowing her. I send my love and condolences to the family.
- Steven Byess, Denver, CO
To the Stephens family: I was so sad to learn of Jan's passing. I remember Mr. and Mrs. Stephens being at all of our band functions when I went to school with Wade. Truly a great family! My prayers are with you all.
- Tracie Silvers Parker, Hampton, GA
What a great lady. She made our move to GA so much easier 15 years ago. She was also my mentor in learning how to crochet. We'll never forget her display of Nutcrackers at Christmas. She'll be missed. Prayers for Roger and the family.
- Marsha & Larry Kolar, Acworth, GA
Jeff, Sorry to hear of your loss. I pray she finds the peace she deserves after such a long battle with cancer.
- Ryan Bianchi, , SC
Roger, David & Debra, Jeff & Mel, Wade & Helen, and families, I was so saddened to learn this past weekend of your loss. I have vivid memories of Jan from our high school years and they all contain her infectious smile; most bear her laugh as well. What a delightful soul. I truly count myself blessed to have known her. I'm sorry that Candice and I cannot be there to offer our support but will certainly continue to pray from here. Love to you all, Mac Worley
- Mac Worley, Kennesaw, GA
Wade, Helen, Anna, and Katina, We are all so saddened to hear of the passing of Wade's mother. You are always in our thoughts and now will be in our prayers as well. We miss you all so much!
- Tracy Jacobs, Forest Hill, MD, MD
Jeff and Mel, David, Wade and family - please accept my heartfelt condolences om the passing of your mother. I, too, have fond many memories of our times at your house or being shuffled around by your parents. Many fond memories of middle and high school band and other outings, and your mom was always around. All the best to you all. Tom and Missy Randall Kennesaw, GA
- Tom Randall, Kennesaw, GA
Roger, We are so sorry for your loss. We have so many memories of times spent at your house back in the band days. You and Jan were always such gracious hosts. Pleas know that we are thinking of you.
- Mike and Laura Boatner, Dallas, GA
Memories of time spent with Roger and Jan become all the more valuable at this time.
- Thomas Buck, Marietta, GA
Dear Roger, Jeff, Melonie, David and Wade, I was saddened to hear of your loss. I have such wonderful memories of Jan. She was such a kind charming person. I feel so lucky to have known her. She just had this sparkle about her. My thoughts are with you all. With love, Bob Dorer
- Bob Dorer, Minneapolis, MN
All of the Stephens Family; We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Jan. Our condolences go out to the entire family. Our 50+ year close association of our friends Roger and Jan has been our longest friendship. We will miss a great lady, mother and member of a true Southern family. We continue our support of Roger,Ron and all the family. Liz and I will see all of you at the service to honor this special lady.
- Jim and Elizabeth Sasser, Aiken, SC
To all of the wonderful Stephens, Jan was a very special lady. She was beautiful. Her true beauty was inside of her heart. As long as I can remember, she was always kind and friendly to all. Jan, you are missed and loved. Eleanor and Bob Rawls
- Bob and Eleanor Blackshear Rawls, Waynesville 31566, GA
Wade,Helen and girls, Our deepest sympathy go out to your whole family! Love, Bill,Mary,George and Dimitri Roros
- Roros, Bel Air, MD
Roger and family, Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Jan, like her mother, was one of the sweetest people to ever enter our lives. She will be deeply missed. Julia, Kate and Morgan Taylor
- Julia Taylor, Savannah, GA
Jeff and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very sad time. May God watch over you and your family. Vickie Theis Colleague of Jeff's
- Vickie Theis, Greer, SC
There are no doubts, after working with Jeff for several years, that Janice was a woman of noble character and a fine mother. My heart goes out to you all for your loss and I pray the loving arms of our Lord and Savior will comfort you until the pain subsides and precious memories take over. Sincerely, Suzy
- Suzy Tuske, Greer, SC
Jeff and Family, please accept my condolenses on the death of your mom. I know that she will be missed but she is in a better place. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Ursula
- Ursula Gibbs, Greer, SC
Wade, Helen, Anna, and Katina, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in our prayers during this difficult time. We miss you tons. With our deepest sympathy....
- Brian and Kitty Young and Family, Forest Hill, MD
Roger and the rest of the Stephens Family, Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. We were very glad to have gotten to know Jan over the years. Jan was a very sweet and loving lady. We enjoyed getting to spend time at the beach together. It was wonderful for her to be part of our family. With Love, Trifon, Katina, Chris, and Larry
- The Petcos Family: Trifon, Katina, Chris, and Larry, Pittsburgh, PA
Dear Roger, David & Debra, Jeff & Mel, Wade & Helen, and families, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of our sweet Jan. The Stephens family will always have a special place in our hearts and we are blessed to have known and worked with you during the North Cobb years. Jan always represented the epitome of southern grace, charm and compassion. We regret that we cannot be there with you to offer our support but will continue to keep the family in our prayers and remember the good times shared. Much love to you all.
- Scott & Stephanie Ragsdale, Marietta, GA
Hey buddie, Me and Linda were so sorry to hear of Jan's passing.She was such a sweet lady and I'm sure she is with the Lord. Roger we are next door and will always be there for you. We love you Victor and Linda.
- Victor Deen, savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
