Mary Jo Stephenson

Mary Jo Stephenson, of Abilene, gained her angel wings and went to her Heavenly home to celebrate Christmas December 25, 2023. She passed away at home.

A memorial will be held at 3:00PM Saturday, December 30, 2023, at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. Terry St. Pierre will lead her celebration of life.

Mary Jo was born in Biloxi, Mississippi to Buck and Louise Odom on April 9, 1956. 

She attended schools in Ft. Worth, Texas and upon moving to Abilene attended Wylie High School and during this time she met her soulmate and love of her life. They eloped to Mexico! She married Paul Keats "PK" Stephenson on November 13, 1972, in Acuna Mexico with the assistance of a paid 10-year-old interpreter! Many years ago, she accepted the Lord as her Saviour at Broadview Baptist Church in Abilene.

Mary Jo had a smile that lit up every room, an infectious laugh, and a spirit larger than life. She never met a stranger and had a heart for serving and helping others.

She built numerous friendships throughout her lifetime. For over 20 years she was a Volunteer and Bereavement Coordinator at Hospice of Abilene that later became Hendrick Hospice Care. She moved to United Way of Abilene and finished her career as a marketing specialist at Cumulus Broadcasting. 

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Buck and Louise Odom.

Mary Jo is survived by husband, Paul; son, Jason Stephenson and fiancé Wendy Norman of Abilene; daughters Randi Mills and Justin of Clyde; Ginger Nelson and Gary of Plano; sisters Ruth Ann Gallegos of Round Rock; Mickey Lever and Robert of Waco; Ramona Hendon and Wayne of Dallas; brothers Eddie Odom of Eastland; and Andy Odom and Cheryl of Round Rock. Her grandson Ethan Stephenson and granddaughters Rylee and Faith Mills filled her heart with the greatest joy! She has numerous nieces and nephews and her furry four-legged babies Chloe and Katlynn.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to All Kind Animal Initiative allkindabilene.org or a charity of your choice.

The family of Mary Jo wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Keith Robinson, Metro Care, and Abilene Police and Fire departments.

Her granddaughter, Rylee, described her perfectly with her words, "She was the best person to ever be around. Her love grew so big and loud with truly the biggest heart and sweetest soul. Her name, face, eyes, and voice will forever be with us. God needed you and I hope you are resting peacefully, Nana."