Evelyn "Dell" Ardell Stevens
July 19, 1950 ~ April 1, 2025
Evelyn Ardell Stevens, affectionately known as Dell, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, the 1st day of April 2025, in Tyler, Texas at the age of 74. Born on the 19th day of July 1950, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Dell was the cherished daughter of Delbert Adams and JoNell Mannon.
Dell's passion for life was evident in everything she did. Her big heart touched everyone she met, and her kindness was felt by all. She had an extraordinary ability to see beauty in the simplest things, often stopping to admire the shapes and colors of the clouds above. Her enthusiasm for gardening was unmatched, as she found peace and joy in the blooms and greenery that surrounded her home.
Not only was Dell known for her green thumb, but she was also an avid collector of clowns. This unique hobby began when she was just three years old and continued throughout her life. Her collection was a testament to her love for whimsy and joy, and each piece held a special story and memory.
Dell's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She was a very active member of the Beall Chapel Church, where she served and worshipped until her health began to decline. Her faith-filled spirit inspired many, and her unwavering trust in her beliefs was a beacon of light for the congregation.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William "Bill" Stevens, her parents, Delbert and JoNell Adams, and her brother, Ralph Adams.
Dell's commitment to family was unparalleled. Dell was a devoted mother to her sons, Thomas McClelland and his wife Doni, and Timothy McClelland. She was a cherished sister to Mary Stephenson and her husband Bob, Sarah Stephenson and her husband Ed, and Velda Lueders and her husband Barry. Her brother, Roland Adams, and his wife Cindy, held a special place in her heart. Dell's love story continued with her adored granddaughter, Shannen McClelland, who was the light of her life.
A funeral service to celebrate the life of Dell Stevens will be conducted at two o'clock in the afternoon, on Sunday, the 6th day of April 2025 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with Bro. Jerry Carroll officiating the service. Interment will follow in Earles Chapel Cemetery in Jacksonville, Texas where Evelyn will be laid next to her husband.
Friends are invited to visit with the family one hour prior to the start of the service at Rhone Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Evelyn Ardell Stevens are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit her online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.
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My sister was the protector, for those who needed protection. She made it known in our neighborhood, not to mess with her younger sister and brother. Her love for collecting glassware, especially bells, was unstoppable. There wasn’t a flea market or junk store that she would willingly pass up. She was always looking for the next treasure. She is at peace and reunited with Bill and our parents. Fly high sweet Sister.💔😘
My sister was neighbor to Dell and Mr. Bill we affectionately called him. Dell loaned me a dress when my mother died! She cooked for myself and my nephew when my sister. Barbara Leonard, passed away and I lived in my sister’s home for a year. Dell and I visited often and her greatest love was for her family! I often checked on her and Mr. Bill and had to help them at times with their medical emergencies! I hated when I moved home almost because I worried about them! They were loved by myself and my nephew! He would be thrilled when Dell cooked for us! He will be saddened when I tell him this. I hope I get to come to the service but if I don’t I may be able to meet them at Earle’s Chapel. Mr.Bill and Dell had a great love for each other and he bought her whatever he could to help her! She had one of the first 3 wheeled bicycles I had ever seen bought by him after her first light stroke! She enjoyed. Underlies collections besides clowns(which filled her den) and pointed out where she had bought what for her collections! She had a bedroom filled with many other collections! I went through all of them with her as she proudly showed me them! We drank coffee together and sat on her front porch and visited! I am sorry to say I did not get to go see her when she moved to assisted living! But I did get to talk to her by phone the last time being 6 weeks to 2 months ago! I am sorry glad! She seemed happy but talked of her home. I loved her! Many people did! My nephew called me about her death! He worked with her at Baxter. We talked about so many things- her love for her sons and Mr.Bill. Rest in Peace Dell! You will be missed!
Dell’s family & siblings are in our thoughts & prayers. I’m sorry I can’t be there for her service. She’ll be missed by many. Love you sweet cousin.
We will miss you Sister. Thanks for loving us all so well. We are jealous that You have made it to heaven and getting to spend time with Mom & Dad before the rest of us. I know my Texas brother -n- law greeted You with open arms. You are loved.🩷
Worked with this sweet lady for years
Such bittersweet memories of our families together when we were children. Peace and comfort to all.🙏🙏🙏