Obituary of Joan C. Stephens

September 26, 1934 - January 5, 2020 Joan is a US Air Force (1952-1955) Veteran. Widow of Harry (Steve) L. Stephens US Air force Retired, Korean and Vietnam Veteran. Joan and Steve met while both were with the Air Force. They were married for 53 years. Dorothy and Forrest Everson of Kingston, MA were Joan’s parents. Joan is the mother to Michele, Jerald and David Stephens. Their son Stevie passed away at age 50 after a long illness. David and Lillian Stephens are parents to Joan’s three grandchildren; Christopher Villanueva, Hollie Quinn, and Angela Stephens. Four great grandchildren brought her great joy; Abel and Loriana Villanueva, Christopher Jones and Mia Giovanetti and great grand #5 due in July. Upon graduating Kingston High School in 1952 Joan joined the US Air Force. As a military couple Joan and Steve were stationed at various bases throughout the US and were deployed to Japan for approximately 18 months. She is survived by six younger siblings; Brenda Shaw, Karen Fratus, Forrest Everson, Jr., Shirley Cavacco, Stanley Everson, and Marcia Nudd, plus many nieces and nephews, all who will miss her dearly. Joan was a true American Patriot who proudly flew our American flag 24/7, 365 days per year. She was an ardent supporter of all military personnel and their families. Her son David is an Air Force Veteran and her granddaughter Hollie is a member of the Air Force Reserves. Her happiest moments were spent on or near the salt or fresh water, boating or camping with family and friends. Her favorites were children of all ages, walking the ocean’s shore looking for beach glass, watching the seagulls, hydrangeas, humming birds and sunflowers. Crossword puzzles and jig saw puzzles...endless puzzles! Joan loved slow dancing with her husband, Ford Thunderbird Coupes, Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, Tony Bennett, and Michael Buble! She never missed NCIS and Jeopardy show. While residing in Michigan she was a huge fan of the Detroit Tigers which (slowly) changed when she and Steve retired to Massachusetts. Joan became a fulltime Red Sox fan, knowing the names of all on the roster. Friday overnights at grandma’s and grandpa’s house for “awesome spaghetti served in that green bowl” were some of the most memorable moments for Hollie and Angela from toddler age until becoming young adults. Joan was a loving, caring and outstanding lady who will be missed by all who have loved her. When leaving her presence she would always call out to us, “Love you back”.... Memorial visiting hours will be held on Friday, January 10th from 4-8:00 PM at the Shepherd Funeral Home, 116 Main St (Rt. 58) Carver.