Eleanor Vivian (Everett) Stephens

     Eleanor Everett Stephens, 87, of Burgaw, died Monday, February 10, 2020 at Liberty Commons Rehabilitation Center in Wilmington.

     She was born July 21, 1932 in Pender County, the daughter of the late John D. Everett II and Sarah Lockey Everett. Also remembered are her beloved husband, James “Jim” Stephens, Jr.; infant daughter, Sarah Susan Stephens; brother, John. D. Everett III; and brother-in-law, Lee Tatum, all who preceded Eleanor in death.

     Eleanor is survived by her sister, Patricia “Pat” Tatum; sister-in-law, Sabra Nunalee; and many nieces and nephews who all loved Eleanor and will miss her dearly.  

     After graduation in 1950 and not finding a job or a “husband,” Eleanor moved to Takoma Park, Maryland and began working in a hospital laboratory. Later, she trained to become a Certified Histologic Technician with the American Society of Clinical Pathologists. She worked at the same hospital for over 20 years and later worked in cancer research for the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. In 1960, Eleanor met James “Jim” Stephens, Jr. and they were married in 1962. She only had to move five blocks into his home, and therefore remained in the same area over 35 years. The “best move” they ever made was when they decided to retire in 1986 and move back to Eleanor’s hometown of Burgaw instead of Jim’s hometown of Crisfield, Maryland.  Eleanor enjoyed traveling, reading, seeing so many great classmates at class reunions, yearly family vacations at Carolina Beach, but most of all Eleanor loved and was devoted to her family.

     The family will receive friends 1:00 pm on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at Long Creek Baptist Church with funeral service beginning at 2 p.m. The Reverend Wayne Bateman will conduct the service. Burial will follow in Malpass Memorial Cemetery at Long Creel Baptist Church. At other times  the family will be at the home of her sister, Pat Tatum.

     Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

     Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.

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