A Celebration of Life Service for Patricia Gail Stephens of Columbia will be Friday, December 9, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church.  Gail was deeply loved by her family, friends and the many whom she served throughout her career in education.  All are invited to attend her service.

Gail was born on November 19, 1951 in Prentiss, MS and passed away on Wednesday, November 30, 2022 at Forrest General Hospital, at the age of 71.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jessie Thomas Griffith and her mother, Elma Louise Mobley Griffith.

She is survived by her husband, James Stephens; daughter, Amy Barber (Mitch); son, Dan Stephens (Carla); four Grandchildren, Evan Barber, Ian Barber, Cort Stephens and Pryce Stephens; sister, Sheila Rippy (John).

Gail's father served in the Navy which provided the opportunity for his family to travel extensively.  Gail began her education in French Morocco, North Africa and continued in schools in Spain, the Island of Bermuda and various cities throughout the United States.

After graduating from Milton High School in Milton, FL, Gail's family returned to their family roots in Mississippi.  She attended PRCC where she met her husband of 51 years.  Gail transferred to the University of Southern Mississippi (USM).  She earned a Batchelor's Degree in Physical Education, followed by two Master's Degrees, one in Physical Education and one in Special Education, all from USM.

Gail spent her entire teaching career with our local Columbia School District.  She taught Physical Education for several years, though the majority of her years in public education were as a Special Education Teacher.   Gail made a significant difference in the lives of countless special needs students and their families as she faithfully served them via her classroom.  In November 1995, Gail was recognized as the Fourth Congressional District Teacher of the Year and as a Mississippi Teacher of the Year Finalist for 1996.  Gail taught in the Columbia School District for 31 years before retiring.

Gail enjoyed being involved in her church and community.  A few of the highlights include

serving with her husband at First United Methodist Church of Columbia as youth leaders for several years, serving as Delta Kappa Gamma president from 1996-2000 and being a member of the Hilltop Garden Club and the Golden Acres Garden Club.

Hathorn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.  Family and friends may sign an online guest register book at www.hathornfuneralhome.com