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On July 22, 2026, Elaine Mary Stephenson, 81, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family in her home in Tallahassee, Florida. She was born on July 11, 1945, to Clifford and Lena Balzano Asbury in Margarita, Panama Canal Zone. After graduating from Cristobal High School, in the Canal Zone, Elaine attended the Universities of New Mexico and Oklahoma where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education. Elaine dedicated 18 years to teaching elementary school with the Canal Zone Government and the Department of Defense Schools. Driven by her passion for helping children succeed, she later earned her master's degree in education and completed an additional 60 graduate credit hours during which time she became an Educational Prescriptionist serving special needs children. Elaine made a lasting difference in the lives of countless elementary-aged students with diverse learning needs and disabilities through her patience, encouragement, and unwavering commitment to their success. Elaine also faithfully supported her husband's career in the Canal Zone until his retirement in 1998. Together, they began a new chapter in Tallahassee, Florida, where they reunited with longtime friends from Panama while building lasting friendships within their new community, including, especially, their Midland Pass neighbors. Outside of her professional life, Elaine found her greatest joy in birdwatching, spending countless hours exploring the jungles and mountains of Panama and Costa Rica with her dear friends. She also treasured time spent with her women's social groups, where lifelong friendships flourished, and found deep fulfillment in caring for those she loved. A devoted member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Elaine lived her faith with quiet grace and unwavering kindness. Above all, her greatest joy was her family. She cherished every opportunity to be together and took immense pride in nurturing her family’s growth. Among Elaine’s many outstanding person qualities, she will be remembered for being gentle, patient, even-tempered, wise, and always willing to assist someone in need and for having a great sense of humor and an incredible memory. Elaine was described by her husband as “the perfect wife and mother”. Elaine is remembered by her loving husband of 59 1/2 years, Michael Norton Stephenson; children Michael Stephenson (Krista) and Anjanette Burke (Anthony); siblings Kathleen Asbury and Diane Sweeney (James); grandchildren Marianne, Wiliam, Ashley (Evan) and Jay; step grandchildren Andrew (Celia), Ryan (Stephanie), Ian; step great-grandchildren Isabel, Zac, Ethan and Anabella; nieces, nephews and many Balzano relatives & other extended family members. Elaine was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Michaels’ parents. A Memorial Mass will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Church of Tallahassee on August 7, 2026, at 1pm to be followed by a reception in the fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Elaine’s memory be made to Good Shepherd Catholic Church 4665 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32309. Hotel Recommendation: Spring Hill Suites Marriott: 1481 Timberlane Road Tallahassee, FL 32312 / (850) 297-0270. Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

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Elaine Mary Stephenson

July 11, 1945 - July 22, 2026