Melissa Lynn “Lisa” Stephenson

Melissa Lynn “Lisa” Stephenson, 63, of Valdosta, died on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at her residence following a sudden illness.  She was born on January 14, 1961, in Valdosta to the late John Larry “Tex” Tatum, and Louise “Lulu” Hamilton Tatum.  Lisa graduated from Valdosta High School where she was a member of the Marchin’ Cats and attended Valdosta State College upon her graduation.  She was a retired Parapro with the Valdosta City School System and a member of Central Avenue Church of Christ. Lisa was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, sister, and grandmother. She loved her family so much. She was a dedicated Christian. She was committed to helping others see Jesus and used her time to serve in His kingdom.

She is survived by her husband of 35 years, John M. Stephenson, Sr. of Valdosta; two sons and a daughter-in-law, John Mark, Jr. and Casey Stephenson of Prattville, Alabama, Tatum Andrew Stephenson and his girlfriend Katrina Weldon; grandchildren, Josiah and Noa Jane Stephenson, Easton Weldon; her mother, Louise “Lulu” Tatum of Valdosta; a brother and sister-in-law, Lee S. and Livia Tatum; a sister, Luanne Tatum Dees; niece Sarah Tatum Beall and husband Bowen; nephews, Raymond S. Tatum, Jasen L. Tatum and wife Adriana, Trevor Tatum Dees; sisters-in-law, Betty Joyce Lockey and husband Don, Diane Fiveash, Marcia Wilson and husband B.J., Laura Stephenson; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Tommy and Joyce Stephenson; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.  She was preceded by her parents-in-law, Willard Sr., and Beulah Stephenson, and two brothers-in-law, Willard C. (Buddy) Stephenson, Jr. and Graham Fiveash.

Services for Lisa Stephenson will be held at 1pm on Friday, May 3, 2024, at the Central Avenue Church of Christ with Mr. John Klimko and Mr. Bryan Jarvis officiating.  The burial will follow in  Hillcrest Memorial Gardens.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.   Condolences to the family may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home