Obituary of Rose Louise Stephens

Rose Louise Stephens passed away at her Hollister residence on January 15, 2021 at the age of 91 years. Rose Louise was born in Tres Pinos, California on May 7, 1929, the fourth of the nine children of Martin and Carmen Valdez. She attended elementary school in Tres Pinos and High School in Hollister. Rose always described her youth as a time of hard work, but mostly happy with close family times. She always said the she picked too many prunes when she was young. She met Jim “T-Bone” Stephens and they were married on January 31, 1948. They had 3 children and both worked hard to provide for their family. Rose worked at Holex for many years and enjoyed the many life-long friends that she made. She kept in contact with many of them over the years and was still in contact recently. She also worked alongside her husband and son in the ambulance business as a fully trained and compassionate EMT for several years. Rose loved to play golf and enjoyed being “with the girls” having lots of laughs and a few cocktails after. She and Jim took many golfing trips with friends and always had a lot of good times and, of course, many hysterical stories to tell. Rose was a kind hearted, caring lady who would do anything for anyone to bring a smile to their face, to make them laugh, feel happy and to know that they were loved. She fiercely loved her family and cared for each one lovingly and individually. She had a very special and close relationship with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were her pride and joy. She left quite a legacy full of great memories and a family that will always appreciate all that she has done for so many and will love and miss her forever. Rose is survived by her children, Judie Turpin (Ted Miller), Jeanne Key (John) and Jimmy Stephens (Donna); grandchildren: David Johns (Jennifer), John Turpin (Noelle), Rose Scott (Lance) Michael Stephens (Emily), Donald Stephens (Julia), Brian Key (Megan) and Billy Key. She is also survived by 18 great-grandchildren; brother Edward Valdez (Leona) and sister Pauline Puckett; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Jim Stephens Sr., and siblings: Martin (Sonny) Valdez, Jim Valdez, Eugene Valdez, Freddie Valdez, Babe Littlejohn and Dorothy Bowden. There are no words to adequately describe how much love, respect, honor and wonderful memories her family and many friends have for our mom. She was the best mom, grandma, great-grandma, sister, cousin, and friend. She did what she could to try to please everyone. She will be greatly missed and completely loved for the rest of our lives. “Rest in peace, dear Mom”. A family graveside service will be forthcoming. A Celebration of Life will also be held at a date to be announced.