Jacquelyn Vivien Stephens

Jacquelyn Vivien Stephens, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 8, 2018, at the age of 88. Jackie was a lifelong resident of New Orleans. She grew up in the Gentilly area, where she attended St. James Major Elementary School. Following her high school years at John McDonogh, she earned her associate degree in Art. Jackie then began her 35-year career as a commercial artist sketching women’s fashion clothing for LaBiche’s Department Store. She also painted many beautiful works of art that were displayed in her tastefully decorated Lake Oaks home. She loved flowers and birds, which were most often her subjects. Jackie was the true definition of a homemaker. With her husband Eddie, they raised their four children. She was also an amazing cook, gardener and decorator. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Edward L. Stephens, her parents, Leo J. Vivien and Beulah W. Vivien. She is survived by her sister and best friend, Carolyn Vivien Gillette, her children Leslie S. Higgins (John), Mark E. Stephens (Cindi), Linda S. Reineke (Jim), and Shelley S. Landry (Ron). Her grandchildren, Ryan Higgins, Megan Higgins D’Aquilla, Taylor Stephens, Brooke Stephens Brannon, Matthew Reineke, Madeline Reineke, Justin Landry, and Jack Landry. Her great-grandchildren Abigail D’Aquilla, Henry D’Aquiila, James Higgins and Sarah “Sadie” Higgins.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend funeral services on Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at Lake Lawn Funeral Home. Visitation from 9am-11am, Mass at 11am. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to www.komen.org in honor of Jackie, a three-time breast cancer survivor.

The family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at www.lakelawnmetairie.com.