Obituary of Linda Stephens

It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Linda “McCoy” Stephens. Her journey through life began October 10, 1943 and passed away peacefully on June 30, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. 

Linda was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia to Ishmael McCoy and Mildred McCoy. From a young age, Linda had a great love for animals, especially dogs and horses. Through the years she would always have one dog or several dogs at a time in her life, in addition, April her beautiful horse. She volunteered with multiple animal shelters and adoption centers throughout her life. Linda was a very talented artist though she never pursued this talent as a career, she created a lot paintings on canvas and shared them amongst family and friends. Her love of reading started at age 15 when she read her first book Sacajawea, she was hooked. Whether a documentary, biography or adventure she read them all and kept everyone of them. 

Linda was an extraordinary, devoted and nurturing Wife, Mother, Sister, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. She eloped at a young age with the love of her life Thomas “Tim” C. Stephens, Jr. For 55 years they created a beautiful life and family together, from Houston, TX, New Orleans, LA and finally settling in their home in Phoenix (Ahwatukee) AZ filling their home with love, laughter and memories to cherish.  

Linda is preceded by her beloved husband Thomas “Tim” C. Stephens Jr., parents Ishmael and Mildred McCoy and Sister Sarah “Shook” McCoy. She is survived by her wonderful sons, T. Scott Stephens and Mark Stephens and beautiful daughter, Cammie Stephens. Known as “Gma”, she is survived by her loving grandchildren Elijah T. Stephens, Harlee Stephens-Brown, Gavin Stephens, Great-Grandchildren Everlee Najar and Weslee Brown and Sister Diane “McCoy” Pfaff. 

Those who knew Linda were so fortunate to have her in their lives. Her selflessness, devotion, humor, spirit and unconditional love impacted so many of us and will forever be missed. 

If you would like to donate in memory of Linda, please submit donation to: Saving Paws Rescue Arizona (savingpawsrescueaz.org)