Merlene Yvonne Stephenson

Merlene Yvonne Black - Stephenson, 84, of Griffith IN. passed away quietly and peacefully in her sleep on Aug 25, 2019 surrounded by her family after a long battle with Alzheimer’s and cancer.

    Merlene was born April 30, 1935 to Merle and Florence Johnson in Chicago, IL. She graduated from Chicago Vocational High School in 1954. From 1954-1959 she worked at Shell Oil Company as an IBM operator. She may be best remembered for her 23 years as a playground supervisor at Calvin Coolidge School in Lansing IL. and her 21 years as a saleslady at Chars Bridal Shop in Lansing IL.

    She is survived by her children William (Gina) Black of Munster IN., Valorie (Donald) White of Hammond IN., and Steven (Alexandra) Black of Munster IN. Grandchildren, Tabitha (Michael) Steele and Steven Black, and great grandchildren Connor and Aubree Steele. Her sister Judy (Robert) Bugos of Arlington Heights, IL. and several nephews and nieces.

      Preceded in death by her first husband and father of her children Ralph Black, and second husband Joe Stephenson.

    Merlene loved her family, dancing, gospel and country music, children, ice cream and her dog Buttons. A loving selfless woman with a wonderful heart, she will be remembered by everyone who knew her and everyone whose lives she’s touched.

    A celebration of her life will be held at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Road, Highland, IN. from 3:00-7:00 pm on Thursday August 29th.  Funeral Services will be held at the Funeral Home on Friday, August 30, at 10:00 am, followed by entombment at Oakland Memory Lanes, in Dolton, IL.  In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s charity of your choice or Hospice of the Calumet Area.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper-Kevin Nordyke by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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