Rita Jean Stephens

Rita Jean (Trent) Stephens, 89 years old, of Kokomo, passed away 6:09 pm Sunday July 27, 2025, at her home. She was born in Vincennes, IN, on January 17, 1936, the daughter of the late Roy and Bernice (Stafford) Trent. On November 22, 1956, she married Norman Stephens, and he survives.

Rita was a 1954 graduate of Vincennes Lincoln High School. She completed her nursing training at Good Samaritan Hospital. She specialized in Obstetrics at both hospitals in Kokomo. She later retired from Dr. Tapnio’s medical office. Rita’s favorite hobbies were sewing, ceramics, and baking wedding cakes. She loved square dancing with her husband. She even sewed their square-dancing outfits. Rita will be remembered for being a great caretaker of her husband, their children, and each of her patients.

In addition to her husband Norman, she is survived by her children, Norman G. Stephens, Mark Stephens, Joni Bottom, Mike (Jenny) Stephens; grandchildren, Samantha Stephens, Alena Stephens (Jarett Biesecker), Kirsten Keesling, Devin (Mike) Crecelius, Trent (Shelby Williams) Bottom, Julian (Abby) Layva, Hagan (Delaney) Layva, William Layva; great-grandchildren, Logan (Courtney), Bodhi, Ari, Aislinn, Olwyn, Quinnton, Norman, Dianna, Johnny, Gabe, Aryanna.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and sister, Jan Trent.

A graveside service will begin at 10 am Friday August 1, 2025, at Albright Cemetery. A ceremony will be held by The Nursing Honor Guard Serving North Central Indiana. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.

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