Rachel Stephens

RACHEL BRUNSON STEPHENS, a beloved mother, grandmother, and treasured member of the Brunswick community, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, leaving behind a rich legacy of faith, family, and love. She was born on September 8, 1924, in Summerton, South Carolina, to the late Seth and Mary (Gibson) Brunson.

Rachel is survived by her two daughters, Gloria Stephens Johnson and Delores Stephens, both of Brunswick, Georgia; and daughters-in-law, Juanita Stephens of Clarksville, Tennessee, Barbara Stephens of Jacksonville, Florida, Rebecca Simmons of White Plains, New York, and Deborah Congleton Simmons of Charleston, South Carolina. Her family was her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Leonard “LC” Stephens; three sons, Leonard Stephens, Seth Simmons, and John Stephens; and son-in-law, Frank Johnson. She was also reunited in spirit with her siblings—Carrie Gibson, Mariah Felder, Charlie Brunson, Lenora Tinsley, Flegner Brunson, Bertha Jones, Jack Brunson, Seth Brunson, Sue Ester Walker, and Daisy Mae Bradley—each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Rachel’s legacy continues through her devoted grandchildren: Eddie Vail, Jody Foster, Eric Stephens (Yolanda), Latanza Stephens Garvin (Murray), Travis Stephens, Kizzy Stephens Fuller (Reuben), Twanda King, Carrie Jackson (Albert), Sethina Howard (Robert), Calvin Robinson, Seth Simmons, Jr., (Doreen), Daniel Simmons, and Michel Congleton; as well as her goddaughter, Doritha Sloan. She also leaves behind a host of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will carry her spirit with them always.

Rachel was a pillar of her community and a dedicated member of Greenland Baptist Church for over 75 years. She loved singing in the choir and was deeply honored to serve as the church’s “Mother.” Her faith in God was unwavering, and she exemplified it daily through her kindness, compassion, and willingness to help others in need.

Rachel was known for her love of the outdoors. She found peace in gardening and joy in fishing, often sharing her “catch of the day” stories with a smile. She also took pride in her work at Sea Harvest Packing Co., and City Market Seafood, where she was famously known as the fastest shrimp peeler. She cherished the friendships she built there, and her laughter was a light to her coworkers.

She especially loved reminiscing about her siblings, often sharing treasured stories that kept their spirits alive in her heart. Her reflections reminded everyone around her of the strength of family ties and the beauty of shared memories.

Rachel Brunson Stephens was a woman of grace, resilience, and compassion. Her life was a testament to faith, hard work, and unconditional love. Though she will be dearly missed, her legacy will continue in the lives of all those she touched.

Her spirit lives on—in the blooming of a garden, the melody of a hymn, and the embrace of a loving family. Rachel’s love will remain a guiding light for generations to come.