Priscilla L. Stevens 6/1/1936—3/15/2020
West Brookfield, MA/ Charlton
Priscilla L. Stevens, 83, formerly of Charlton, MA and Charlotte, NC passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Sunday, March 15 at Quaboag Rehabilitation and Skilled Care Center.
Priscilla was born and grew up in Charlton, MA, daughter of Erwin J. and Jennie K. (Foskett) Stevens. She graduated from Charlton High School in 1954, Worcester Junior College, and Aurora College in Aurora, IL. Her first career was working with children, teaching at Clark Street School in Worcester before earning her master’s degree at Teacher’s College of Columbia University, then going on to work as a guidance counselor in Atlanta, GA. She later moved to Charlotte, NC, where she settled in, worked for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission until retiring, and attended Statesville Road Baptist Church, until her health declined.
Faith and family were important to Priscilla. Her faith was nurtured growing up at Wayside Advent Christian Church in Charlton; she most recently attended Statesville Road Baptist Church in Charlotte, NC. Throughout her life, Priscilla had a gift for making an entrance, and making an impact on all those around her. She developed and nurtured lasting ties with her immediate and extended family, childhood and school friends. She constantly made new friends that became family among church groups, fellow music and bluegrass fans, and the regulars at her favorite spots, including the Waffle House. She was always willing to try new things, and filled her spare time with maintaining her rentals, trying skills and hobbies including listening to and performing bluegrass, yodeling, golf, and learning to use her computer. She often ended her day at Puckett’s to read the paper and relax, where they kept a reading lamp at her favorite table.
Priscilla leaves us to join her parents, sister Barbara Stevens (Sellers) Beaty of Keene, TX, brothers Paul Stevens of MA and Raymond Stevens of Castle Hayne, NC, a nephew Randy Sellers, brothers-in law Ralph Sellers and George Beaty and sister-in-law Marjorie (Thurlow) Stevens. She leaves behind a sister-in-law, Phyllis (Moore) Stevens of Castle Hayne, NC, many cousins and friends including a special neighbor James Brooks. Priscilla was cared for in her last years by her nephew Jonathan Stevens, his wife Kim and their three daughters, Julie Stapleton, Jessica Curboy and Jenna Rojas. She cherished her role as Aunt Priscilla to Tim and Janet Sellers of TX, Pam (Sellers) and Ron Stout of OK, Becky (Sellers) and Ray House of Timor Leste; Jennifer (Stevens) and Dennis McGrail of MA, Jesse and Sherry Stevens of WI; Ray and Melissa Stevens and Rudy and Michelle of NC (all of whom claim to be her favorite). She was also Great Aunt ‘Cilla to seven great-nieces, ten great-nephews; three great-great nieces, and eight great-great nephews. She made a point to travel to attend graduations, weddings and birthdays, making every visit an adventure, while relishing being in the middle of the action.
Priscilla was happiest surrounded by friends and family, especially when hosting gatherings at Myrtle Beach, providing her family and friends with many treasured times together over the years. We will remember Priscilla for her zest for life, infectious laugh, sense of style, sun hat collection, ever-present camera accompanied by calls to, “Look here and say ‘Hey’!”, but especially for the way she always lit up around babies and children.
Due to the current precautions, calling hours and service will be private. The family encourages you to pay your respects by sharing your condolences and memories on-line, and to pay tribute to Priscilla’s life by enjoying time with your loved ones (sun hats, matching outfits for the kids, and camera optional!). The family would like to thank the compassionate staff at Quaboag. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Priscilla’s name to Quaboag Rehabilitation and Skilled Care Center Activity Fund. A Memorial service and burial will be planned for a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the Robert J. Miller –Charlton Funeral Home, 175 Old Worcester Rd., Charlton.
To send a message of condolence, please visit: RJMillerfunerals.net