LEVERNE STEPHENS SANDERS

SANDERS, LEVERNE STEPHENS went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 26, 2011. “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Known by all she came in contact with as a godly woman who saw people through eyes of love, not eyes of judgment, she will be remembered for her many acts of kindness and words of encouragement. LeVerne was born on August 15, 1917 in Bessemer, Alabama to Mert and Pearl (Birchfield) Stephens. As a child in a musical family who traveled around teaching singing schools, she learned a love of music. She continued to teach through song in special groups and in the church. Several of her family members helped start the Rock Creek Church of God. LeVerne was an active member there from an early age and all through her life. She served on boards, taught Sunday School, cooked at youth camps and other functions. She ministered to others by singing, praying, and living out the love of God. For 30 years she served as the Church Secretary/Treasurer and everyone knew her as an accurate and honest bookkeeper. She was well loved, not only by her church but by her family. To her children, nephews, nieces and grandchildren, she was a counselor, mentor and sage. Her wisdom and tactful guidance will be greatly missed by all. LeVerne graduated from Hueytown High School at the age of sixteen and enrolled in Alabama College for Women, later known as the University of Montevallo. She was a social worker for the Department of Public Welfare for ten years after her completion of college. She earned degrees---a B.S., an M.A. and obtained her Principal/Supervisor Certificate in Education at UM. She taught Math and Science at Rutledge, Dolomite and Concord before becoming a principal at Alliance and Concord. She spent many hours lobbying for teachers pay and benefits as president of Jefferson County Teacher’s Association. She dedicated a total of thirty-five years in service to her students who will remember her as “firm but fair”. Although she didn’t attend Auburn University, her brother, a daughter, a granddaughter, and other family members did. She had reserved seats at Jordan Hare Stadium. Even in her last years, she would watch games on television and pull for Auburn. No one ever questioned her loyalty. LeVerne is predeceased by her husband, Hugh Sanders and her brother and lifelong friend, Von Stephens. She is survived by her sister (in-law) Betsy Stephens, her two daughters, Patsy Franklin and Pam True (Tom), by four granddaughters, Tessa Shoultz, Kara Cole (Jason), Brenna Henry, and Megan Whitley and by three great-grandchildren, Patricia Shoultz, Kellen and Kade Watkins. Services will be held at the Rock Creek Church of God on Wednesday, March 30th with visitation at 12:00 noon and funeral at 2:00. Interment will follow in the adjacent cemetery. Rev. Wayne Absher will conduct the celebration of LeVerne’s life that so many were privileged to share. Her life was a testimony to her faith in God. Heaven is now rejoicing at her homecoming. The family would like to thank Ms. Bertha Jenkins, Kara Cole, and Georgette at Southeast Hospice Network. They gave her tender care during her last days on this earth. Although bedridden, she never lost her sweet smile, her loving nature or her amazing knowledge of those around her. Any donations may be made to the Rock Creek Church of God.

LEVERNE STEPHENS SANDERS

August 15, 1917 - March 26, 2011