Violet Penn Stephens, 87, of Bedford, VA passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025. A devoted wife, cherished mother, and compassionate friend, she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and service.

Born on June 4, 1938, in Bedford County, VA, Violet was raised in the Christian faith and remained deeply committed to her beliefs throughout her life. She attended and was a member of Bold Branch Baptist Church in Bedford County, First African Baptist Church in Sharon Hill, PA, and Forest Presbyterian Church in Forest, VA, where she found community and spiritual fulfillment.

An accomplished student, Violet graduated from Susie G. Gibson High School in 1956, serving as salutatorian of her class. She carried that same dedication of excellence into her professional life, building a remarkable career at Verizon. She worked her way up from an entry-level position to become a manager of training, mentoring and supporting many along the way.

She met and married Curtis Stephens. Together, they built a life in Delaware County, PA with their three children. Violet and Curtis later returned to Bedford County for their retirement years.

Beyond her professional achievements, Violet was passionate about giving back to her community. She was a dedicated volunteer Director of the Bedford Christian Free Clinic and participated in numerous church-related and charity events. She taught Sunday school for many years, was vice president of the Friends of the Bedford County Library and was a planning committee member for the local Boy Scout troop. She also found joy in baking, sewing, and traveling, sharing her warmth and creativity with those around her. Violet loved to collect antiques.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Curtis Stephens, and their adored sons, Dennis and David Stephens and daughters-in-law Sharon and LaVerne Stephens. Her wisdom, kindness, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed but forever treasured in the hearts of her grandchildren, Alisha Goodrum (Kevon), Isaiah and Jayson Stephens and great granddaughter Kierra Goodrum. Violet leaves to cherish her memory, her aunt Eunice Hardeman, godchildren Kamala Arango and Gerard Payne Jr., and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Violet was preceded in death by her parents Gaston and Clarissa Bond and daughter Kelli Clarissa Yates.