Drusilla O. Stephen

On the beautiful brisk afternoon of October 3, amidst the early display of fall colors and a sky full of billowing white clouds I, Drusilla O. Stephen slipped peacefully from my life here on earth to join my family and friends in heaven. I was surrounded by loved ones and a skilled staff who had been keeping a steady vigil. Dru as many would call me was the first born child born to Robert Owens and Cora Simmons Owens, who preceded me in death. A few years later my siblings; Robert J. Owens, Cora M. Owens, and Charles E. Owens joined me in forming a dynamic sibling bond. I will truly be remembered for my love of fashion, poise, and never meeting a stranger. To cherish my memory, I leave my Daughter, Angela D. Stephen; Granddaughter, Kea’nah (Alonzo) King-Davis; Grandson, Nijeal T. Stephen; Great-Grandson, Keyon M. King; a Special Sister-in-law, Donna S. Owens; Nephew, Steven C. Owens, Nieces, Collette C. McLaughlin, Tekeshia P. Owens, &Ta’Juana M. Owens; Great-Nephews, Christopher R. McLaughlin and Chase M. McLaughlin; Great-Nieces, Ashaunti S. Owens and Israel M. Pate, God-Daughters,Lisa H. Anderson and Selana M. Holt, my extended Tiny Tot children, and a host of devoted family and friends. I Graduated from Dunbar High School in 1961 and furthered my education at Bennett College. I am a proud Graduate of the Class of 1986 from Shaw University with a BS degree in Behavioral Science with a concentrated minor in Sociology. My employment history includes working as a Nursing Assistant at New York University Medical Center and Lead Teacher at Tiny Tot Daycare located in Lexington, NC. I would eventually serve as the Director of Tiny Tot. Throughout my life I have touched the lives of many children in and out of Davidson County. I had a great influence on their impressionable early educational years, a job I did not take lightly. Mrs. Stephen as my former students would call me,would recall my authoritative manner but generous spirit. God was central to my life and I devoted much time to my local church as a dedicated member of New Jersey AME Zion. My involvement included President of Life Members, a member of the Missionary Group, Home Missions, the Welcome Committee, Steward Board, Choir, Christian Education, and a volunteer of areas where help was needed. My community involvement included Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated Lexington (NC) Alumnae Chapter and a past member of the Ebonettes Social Club. After retiring from teaching I devoted my time as a volunteer within the community, spending time with my family and friends, continuing my daily work for the Lord and working with Urban League. Those who knew me would know I would say, I have fought the good fight I have finished the race I have kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7) Choose God because I want to meet you on the other side. Funeral services for Drusilla Stephen will be conducted 3:00 on Sunday, October 9, 2016 at First Baptist Church 201 W. 3rd Strret, Lexington, NC. The family will recieve friends from 2:30 until 3:00 at the church. Interment will follow at New Jersey A. M. E. Zion Church Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Gilmore Memorial Funeral Service

Drusilla O. Stephen

November 7, 1942 - October 3, 2016