Mrs. Vera Janine Stephens

Vera Janine Stephens was born October 2, 1960 to the late Thomas C. and Willie 1v1. Owens. She was the oldest of four children. Vera was a proud graduate of Rufus King International High School in Milwaukee, WI. She went on to pursue post secondary studies at University of Wisconsin Madison in Madison, At an early age. she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior. Vera has maintain her faith throughout her adult years. On October 22, 1983, Vera Janine Owens united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Robert Edward Stephens. This union was blessed with one child, Janine Nicole Stephens. Vera and Robert would have celebrated 37 years of love in October. Vera tirelessly dedicated 30 years of service to the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee. Vera served in several capacities throughout her tenure at the Park lawn and Northside YMCAs before retiring as the W2 Administrator for the Association. Although she made a tremendous professional impact at the YMCA, it was her compassion, unique laugh, tell it like it is personality and genuine love for people that created a lasting impact on many that knew her. Affectionally, many knew her as their "work mom". She provided mentorship, a listening ear and correction when necessary. She truly gave everything she had to everyone she knew! To Vera, those staff became her family. Many of which maintained a consistent presence in her life until the end! After retirement, Vera continued to serve her community by volunteering for community events hosted by the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County as well as Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, organizations in which her daughter Janine is affiliated. She also served as a consultant for several small businesses in Milwaukee, Vera was the rock for her family, the glue that held everyone together! She was their cheerleader, confidant, best friend, motivator, devoted wife, amazing mom and SUPERWOMAN! Vera loved her family and did whatever she could to support each one. She loved being a mother. In spite of her health condition, she managed to be present for EVERY important event for her one and only daughter, Janine. That support did not stop when Janine moved to Madison, Wisconsin. Before her transition, Vera was blessed to witness Janine's engagement to her son-ill-love, Matthew and pregnancy with her granddaughter, Mattilyn Rose. To know her is to love her. Vera will forever be remembered for her kind heart, servant spirit and illuminating personality. She will truly be missed! Mrs. Stephens departed this life on Monday, August 31, 2020. She was preceded in death by both her parents; Thomas C. and Willie M. Owens, and sister; Zephlyn Owens. She leaves to cherish her memories, husband; Robert Stephens, one daughter; Janine (Matthew Hale) Stephens of Madison, WI; two brothers, Gregory (Jacqueline) Owens and Larry (Geneva) Owens of Milwaukee, WI; one grand daughter, Mattilyn Rose and a host of nieces, nephews, surrogate children and friends.

Mrs. Vera Janine Stephens

October 2, 1960 - August 31, 2020