Virginia Mary Stephens (92), passed away in her sleep on Monday, September 23, 2024 at Hitz Memorial Home in Alhambra, IL.

Born on July 3, 1932 in Highland, IL.  In 1950, Virginia graduated from Collinsville High School. She worked in administration for the Federal Government. After (over 30 yrs), she retired from Scott Air Force Base. As an active member of NARFE (National Association Retired Federal Employees), Collinsville Historical Association, and SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Collinsville, where she volunteered as an angel duster. In addition to volunteering, she was also an avid card player, and a member of several bridge card clubs and golf leagues. She enjoyed spending her winters in Gulf Shores, AL as a snowbird for more than 25 years. Virginia loved traveling with her husband and sisters, and spending time with her brothers and sisters-in-law. She was a loving mother and grandmother and will surely be missed.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, Ben Loyet and Ella nee Scully; her husband, William "Bill" S. Stephens, whom she married October 20, 1951; and two brothers: James "Jim" and Robert "Bob" Loyet.

She is survived by her daughter, Carol Stephens-Jay (husband: Jeff Jay); son, Kevin Stephens; granddaughter, Cierra Jay; her four sisters who all reside in the area: Genevieve "Gen" Varda (husband: R. Gildo), Helen Graham (husband: F. William), Marilyn Catalpa (husband: Robert), and Nancy Deason (husband: Vernon); sisters-in-law; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 12 noon on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 207 Vandalia Street, Collinsville, IL.

Memorial mass will follow at noon with Father Michael Haag celebrant. Burial will be in SS Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery in Collinsville.

Memorials are suggested to SS Peter & Paul Cemetery and will be received at the visitation or can be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.