Jeannie Sue Stephens

Jeannie S. Stephens, 79, of the Ak-Chin Indian Community went to her eternal heavenly home on August 30, 2025. Jeannie developed a love for the Lord at an early age and remained steadfast in her Christian faith throughout the years. She also loved school, learning new things, and sharing that knowledge. She attended Stanfield School, Casa Grande Union High School and went on to attend the American Indian Bible College in Phoenix and graduated top of her class. Jeannie was a proud graduate of Grand Canyon University, a Christian university, where she obtained her Master’s degrees in Education. Her first teaching job was in Kayenta, Arizona. She returned to the Casa Grande area and taught at Ocotillo Elementary School for many years until her retirement. After retiring from education, she worked with the Ak-Chin Elder Program.

Jeannie was a member of Stanfield Indian Assembly of God church, and she also attended the New Life Church in Ak-Chin. Over the years she taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School to the youth. She was an avid sports fan and enjoyed attending Cardinals, Diamondbacks, and Suns games. She also enjoyed traveling with the Ak-Chin Elders as well as with her nieces. Jeannie did not hesitate to lend a helping hand to those in need, donated to various charities, and financially supported numerous worthy projects at church. Jeannie is survived by her sister Lillian Shade of Ak-Chin, brother Johnny (Patricia) Stephens of Ak-Chin, her caregivers Elvera and Ame Stephens of Ak-Chin, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents John and Amelia Stephens, her sisters Delphine Vasquez and Mabel Alvarez, and her brothers Barnabas, Danny, and Rupert Stephens.

Her brother, Pastor Johnny Stephens of New Life Church and Pastor Phil Crabbe of Stanfield Indian Assembly of God, will provide a grave site service on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. at the Ak-Chin Indian Community Cemetery located north of West Farrell Road and Cemetery Road. Ak-Chin Indian Community is just south of the City of Maricopa.