Carol E Stephens

Carol was born on April 6, 1935, in Eufaula, Alabama, to William and Doris Espy. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She was active in community service through The Junior League of Huntsville. She was a wonderful cook; her pecan pie recipe is published in the Huntsville Heritage Cookbook. Carol brought her pies with her love to all friends in times of hardship or grief. She especially enjoyed cooking for her family, spending time at the lake, reminiscing about cherished memories, singing and decorating. She was an incredible storyteller who could bring a room to life with her stories and memories. She had an artist's eye and loved sharing her decorating talent and delighted in gifting special pieces to those she loved. Most of all, Carol adored being with her family. She loved deeply and wholeheartedly. Her greatest joy was making the people around her feel loved, welcomed, and cared for. She will be remembered for her kindness, warm hospitality, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Carol is survived by her beloved husband of 73 years, Arthur Stephens; her daughter, Sandi Stephens Simmons (Clay Simmons); her grandchildren, Kelly Roper (Jim), Megan Cobb (Trevor), Heath Simmons (Andrea), Rachel Simmons, Laura Simmons (Ben), and David Simmons; and her great-grandchildren, Kaelynn and McKenna Whitworth, Selah, Sadie, and Joshua Cobb; Drew, Karina, Gabby and Elena Simmons, Baela and Kelton Strong and Gaia Hilton.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Doris Espy; daughter, Lynn Stephens, and sister, Virginia Espy Grubb.

Carol will be deeply missed, but the love she gave so freely will remain a lasting part of everyone fortunate enough to have known her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, cherished memories, and the countless lives she touched. Her love will live on through the family and friends who were blessed to know her, and her stories, laughter, and spirit will continue to be treasured for generations to come.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Kirkwood by the River Chapel, 3605 Ratliff Road Birmingham, Alabama, Officiated by Chaplain Cary Speaker. Visitation will be held prior to the service at 9:30 a.m. An interment service will be held at 1:00 p.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery, 202 Maple Hill St SE, Huntsville, Alabama, officiated by Reverend Coy Hallmark of Huntsville First United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Kirkwood Chapel Fund or Huntsville First United Methodist Church.

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