Deloris “Judy” Ann Stephens

Deloris was one of 9 children born and raised in the small town of Gallipolis, Ohio. Her brothers and sisters were Eunice, Francis, Mary, Richard, Paul, Bill, Kenny, and Gerald. Her father Raymond was a coal miner, and her mother Ora was a homemaker and a farmer. Deloris’ eldest sister Eunice insisted on naming Deloris Judy at birth, but her parents chose Deloris. After a while of Eunice intentionally calling her Judy, the family gave in, and Judy it was! She worked as a food and beverage manager for 17 years at the Sheraton Columbus where the staff were like family. Later retired from Family Medical Pharmacy where she enjoyed the customers and making deliveries.

Everyone that knew Judy loved her deeply. Much like Judy Garland in the Wizard of Oz, Judy was a small-town girl with a zest for life, a beautiful smile, and her own sense of style. Her life path had a cast of characters and more than a few tornadoes! Always trying to find her way she accepted and faced her fears. Judy raised three children, Brian, Lori, and Heidi. She worked hard, adored her Granddaughter Abby, and had a giving heart for others. She loved the spirit of Christmas, the falling of fresh snow, milk chocolate Hershey bars, and shopping! Her favorite color was red, and we are certain if she could click her ruby red heels three times, she would tell us that not only is there no place like home but that she is truly home. Her savior was not a wizard, it was Jesus, and today her yellow brick road is paved with gold.

She is survived by her son Brian Cairelli; daughters Heidi (Husband, James Benefiel III) and Lori Millard (Husband Bob Millard); granddaughter Abby Millard and sister Francis McGuffin (Husband, John McGuffin).

A private service will be conducted on Saturday November 25, 2023. Please contact the family at 949-274-1628 for details. In Lieu of flowers, please make donations in Honor of Judy Stephens to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org. Send recipient notifications to Heidi Benefiel at [email protected].