October 29, 1921 ~ May 14, 2023
On Mother’s Day, after over 101 years, Mignon “Nonie” Killpack Stephenson, peacefully passed… at her daughter’s home, in Las Vegas, NV.
A thousand trumpeting Angels, heralded her return to Heaven on High!
Mom was born in Delta on October 29, 1921 to Marion and Lillian Killpack. Her two older sisters- Vesta and Lela- passed some years ago.
After World War 2, the pretty Delta rabbit was swept off her feet by Army Air Corpsman Clair Stephenson from McCornick. (Dad died in 2010). Mom and Dad married on May 17, 1948, and raised 3 children: Cherie (Var-deceased) Stott, San Diego, CA, Jean (Pete) Miller, Las Vegas, NV, and Ray (Jennifer) Stephenson, San Marcos, TX.
“Grandma Nonie” as she was affectionately called, had 12 grandchildren, 21 great, and 7 great-great-grandchildren. Indeed, she was the proud Matriarch to 5 generations! Even as the kids and their numbers grew, Grandma Nonie’s genuine interest in all of their endeavors never faltered. She knew every family member’s name and age, traits and personalities by heart. Mom acknowledged birthdays with a card or call to each of us well into her latter years. Her family was everything to her. My, what an example she set!
Mom had many friends because of simple good principles. She never spoke ill of anyone, she was a good listener, and when asked, always offered golden advice. Often, a friend would come to the house or call her with a heavy heart. After Mom’s wise counsel, they would leave with a smile, having shed their burden. Dad joked she was the “Ann Landers” of Fillmore.
Dad loved horse racing and this hobby was something they enjoyed together. Mom’s steadfast choice to bet on the grey often left her the winner over the men with their tip-sheets and memorized pedigrees. With a glint in her eye she would rub it in!
Mom’s years and quality of life were- without question- enhanced by the selflessness of her wonderful two daughters: Cherie and Jean, who in turn housed and helped her as she aged. Mom’s healthy longevity of life was a priceless gift we all enjoyed.
Nonie Stephenson- Mom- will be missed.
