Mrs. Jean Meredith Stemper, age 81, passed away in Nacogdoches, Texas, on June 11, 2013. She was born in Columbus, Ohio, on May 15, 1932, to her parents Charles Lamont Hall and Hilda Blakesly Hall.
She trusted her life to the Lord Jesus Christ at 21 years of age and felt a call to attend Asbury College in Wilmore, Kentucky. While attending Asbury College, she earned a bachelor’s degree in English. More importantly, she learned to trust fully in the Lord’s faithful provision and mercy. It was at Asbury College that she met and married the love of her life, John Stemper. Early in their married life, Jean followed John to the mission field of Brazil. Later, she would support her husband in his call to the ministry in New Iberia, LA., Freeport, TX., and Alief, TX. Throughout her life, she was an English teacher, a librarian, and a Sunday school teacher. However, most importantly, she was a loving, supportive wife and a wonderful, caring mother and grandmother. Her strong Christian faith helped to influence all with whom she came in contact. Jean always reached out to support people who were in need of a kind word or a helping hand. She had the gift of making everyone feel welcomed and accepted. She will be remembered for her encouraging words, warm smile, and funny sayings and anecdotes. More than anything, she lived her life to the glory of God. Jean Stemper will be missed by all who had the privilege to know her.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Mary Williams, and brothers John Hall and Charlie Hall, and infant son, David Paul. She is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Rev. John C. Stemper; daughters, Dianne Lacy and husband Scott, Dana West and husband Allen; son, Daniel Stemper and wife Brenda; grandchildren, Emily, Rachel, and John and wife Hannah Lacy; Aaron, Jacob, and Carrie West; and Matthew Stemper.
A memorial service will be conducted by Pastor Harlie Patterson at the First Church of the Nazarene in Nacogdoches on Saturday, June 22, 2013, at 11:00 am. Private inurnment will take place at the Houston National Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorial donations to be offered to Nacogdoches Christian Academy Library, 211 SE Stallings Dr., Nacogdoches, Texas 75965.
Online condolences may be offered at www.casonmonk-metcalf.com.
Memorial arrangements are under the direction and care of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors.
