Lylis June Stephenson

On June 2, 2023, Lylis Stephenson, of Sacramento, passed away peacefully in her sleep with her sweetheart by her side. She was 90 years old, just shy of her 91^st birthday. Lylis June Schlachter was born on 11 June 1932 to William and Marie Schlachter of Glenvil, Nebraska. Lylis attended Hastings High School in Hastings, Nebraska. She was married on October 15, 1950, in Hastings, Nebraska to William (Bill) Thomas Stephenson. They had 4 children, 3 sons and a daughter. In 1959 she and Bill made the big move west to California. They raised their family and started and ran a successful business together during their years in the Sacramento area until his passing in (1987). In 1996, Lylis was lucky to find love again when she and Don Powell joined their lives together. Lylis and Don continued their life together in the Sacramento area as they enjoyed watching the families grow. Lylis was well loved and respected in her community, her church and by her many friends and large family who are spread all over the world. Despite her large family, Lylis always made time for people. She was an active participant in life itself and she invested in the lives of other. She provided support, encouragement and love to her family in all ways. If there was a way that Lylis could help someone, she would offer without hesitation. Lylis was a giant in her family. She was the glue and the compass. Her example of strength, class, dignity and compassion were just a few of the many things that made Lylis so beloved. Lylis was a pioneer in the area of women in business leadership in the 1980-90s. She was an active member of the Women Construction Owners & Executives (WCOE) and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) in Sacramento. She was forward thinking, she had a quick wit and it was tough to nearly impossible to change her mind once she committed to something. She had strength and grit while exuding grace, poise and charisma.

Lylis is preceded in death by her parents William & Marie,  husband of 37 years, William Thomas Stephenson, her brothers, Melvin & Harlan Schlachter, and sisters, Bernice Nelson TayTasic, Vera Shuck and Donna Juggert

Lylis is survived by her sweetheart of 27 years, Don Powell, her sister, Merna Kinnison, her daughter Sue Cutter (Brooke), her three sons Randy (Jan), Timothy and Todd Stephenson, 11 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

She has left a legacy that is unparalleled. Her presence will remain strong in the lives of those who were fortunate to be loved by her. She left a lasting impression and imprint on all who encountered her.

Viewing will be held on Friday 9 June,2023 from 4:00PM - 8:00PM at East Lawn Memorial Chapel

Services will be held on Saturday 10 June,2023 @ 1:00PM at East Lawn Memorial Chapel, 5757 Greenback Lane, Sacramento, CA 95841