Madge Stephens
Madge Alberta Huey Stephens passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 17, 2024, in Avon, Indiana. She was born August 24, 1938, to Isaac Wilson Huey and Elsie Mae Wheatley. Madge was a loving wife, a caring mother, grandmother, friend, and a child of God. We have faith she was met at God’s gate and led by Jesus to see her husband Russell, her mom Elsie and dad Isaac, her siblings, Earl Huey (Helen), Wanda Manlief (Woody), Juanita Harrison (Pally), Billy Gene Huey (Eleanor), her in-laws Ray and Lettie Stephens, sister-in-law Lucille, brother-in-law Clettus, and multiple nieces and nephews.
Madge is survived by her daughter Paula Stephens-Bibeau of Avon, Indiana, her son Pastor David Stephens (Joan) of Phenix City, Alabama, grandchildren; Stephanie West (Jeremy) of Indianapolis, Indiana, Bradford Stephens (Julie) of Jacksonville, Arkansas, Brian Stephens (Christina) of North Vernon, Indiana, Brandon Stephens, Bryce Stephens, Carol Tillson of Phenix City, Alabama, Susan Wistoski (Jason) of Dahlonega, Georgia, Denise Smith (Dwayne Stangle) of Shelbyville, Indiana. Madge also leaves behind 27 great grandchildren and 15 great-great grandchildren.
She married Russell Stephens on October 17, 1954, and their family quickly grew. Marrying at 16, being a farm wife, mother, and the various jobs to make ends meet wasn’t easy, but Madge ultimately earned her high school degree from Jac Cen-Del in July 19,1966. She continued her education and received an Associate’s Degree of Arts from Purdue University on May 12,1987. Madge became a teacher and taught children with disabilities, which was rewarding and brought her great joy. She was also a substitute teacher at other schools and even had the privilege of teaching some of the family. South Ripley honored her for 5 wonderful years of service in 2003.
Madge beat ovarian cancer, but unfortunately could not overcome Alzheimer’s. Her celebration of life will be on Tuesday, November 26th, at Neal’s Funeral Home in Osgood, Indiana. Visitation will be at 12pm with services at 1pm. Burial will follow at Greendale Cemetery. Online condolences can be placed at Nealsfuneralhome.net Instead of flowers, please consider donating to the Ripley County Humane Society, Alzheimer’s Association, or the Brighton Hospice.
