EmiLea Stephens

Mrs. EmiLea Stephens, 85, of Ada, Oklahoma, passed away on July 28, 2026, in Oklahoma City.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, at Criswell Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Travis Muse officiating. Burial will follow at Rosedale Cemetery.

EmiLea was born on August 21, 1940, in Council Hill, Oklahoma, to Clifford Martin Crittenden and Violet Elizabeth Wood Crittenden. She graduated from Council Hill High School in 1959 before earning her bachelor's degree in education from Northeastern State University and her master's degree from Connors State College.

On August 15, 1965, she married the love of her life, Lowell Dean Stephens, at Elm Grove Baptist Church in Council Hill. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service to others.

EmiLea devoted her career to education, teaching kindergarten in Coalgate, Ada, Maud, Lacy, and Kingfisher. She believed in the importance of nurturing young minds and touched the lives of countless students throughout her years in the classroom.

A faithful member of Asbury Methodist Church, EmiLea lived her faith through service. She volunteered at food pantries through her church and helped serve meals at the Chickasaw Nation. She was also a proud member of the Cherokee Nation.

She found joy in volunteering, playing bridge and dominoes, visiting with friends, traveling, and, above all, spending time with her family. Known for her quick wit and positive outlook, EmiLea was always able to find humor in any situation. Her faith was deeply important to her, and she often recorded her reflections on the Scriptures she was reading, leaving behind a legacy of steadfast faith and thoughtful devotion.

She is survived by her son, Lane Stephens and his wife, Apryl Boyd-Stephens; and her grandsons, Brennan Stephens and Jayden Boyd.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lowell Dean Stephens; her parents, Clifford Martin and Violet Elizabeth Crittenden; and her brother, Tommy Crittenden.

EmiLea will be remembered for her compassionate heart, unwavering faith, joyful spirit, and the love she shared with her family, friends, students, and community. Her life was a testament to kindness, service, and the enduring strength of faith.