Bonnie "Grace" (Fortenberry) Stephens

Bonnie “Grace” Fortenberry Stephens, age 94 peacefully entered the presence of her Lord and Savior on June 15, 2026, at her home in Clermont, Georgia, surrounded by the love of her family and the grace of God.

Grace was a devoted Christian woman whose life reflected the faith she cherished so deeply. She faithfully read her Bible every day and lived according to its teachings, offering a kind word, a helping hand, and a loving heart to everyone she met. Her unwavering faith was evident in the way she cared for others, loved her family, and trusted God through every season of life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Vernon Stephens, with whom she shared a life built on love, commitment, and faith. Together they raised a family and built a legacy that continues through the generations.

Grace leaves behind her loving children: Tony Stephens and his wife, Connie Stephens; Pam Ledford and her husband, Lamar Ledford; and Shari Stephens. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Mitch Stephens and Mandy Bangs, and Whitney and Tyler Ledford. She was also blessed with six precious great-grandchildren: Addie, Ellie, and Anniston Bangs; Brody and Emmie Claire Stephens; and Cooper Ledford. She also had many nieces and nephews. Each of them held a special place in her heart and brought her immeasurable joy.

Grace was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She devoted many years to caring for children while raising her own family. She worked at Piedmont Lab for a number of years.  She faithfully supported her husband throughout his 32-year career in the automobile business, serving as a steadfast partner and source of encouragement.

Her simple pleasures brought her great happiness. She enjoyed sewing, watching Atlanta Braves baseball games, and spending time with those she loved. Family gatherings were made even more special by her famous Christmas rum cake. Each year, she would make her annual trip to the liquor store to purchase the rum, hoping no one would see her, a tradition that became a treasured family story and brought laughter to all who knew her.

Grace’s spiritual journey included faithful attendance at the Methodist Church in Cleveland, Georgia, and later membership at Mount Vernon Baptist Church after moving to Hall County. Her church family and faith community were important parts of her life, and she remained devoted to serving the Lord until the very end.

Though her family grieves her passing, they rejoice in the assurance that she is now at home in Heaven. Her life was a beautiful testimony of God’s grace, and her legacy of faith, kindness, humility, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel at Memorial Park Funeral Home, Memorial Park Dr. Gainesville. Reverend Steve Baker will officiate the service. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Flowers accepted, or donations to Mt. Vernon Baptist Church in her memory. 5233 Will Wheeler Rd, Murrayville, GA 30564.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Drive, Gainesville, Georgia 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.

Send online condolences to memorialparkfuneralhomes.com 

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