Paula Yvonne Stephenson of Arcadia, Florida, and Flint, Michigan, passed away on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at DeSoto Memorial Hospital in Arcadia, Florida. She was 63.

Born on October 8, 1961, in Flint, Michigan, Paula was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Beverly Dues. She graduated from Kearsley High School in 1979 and went on to attend Western Michigan University, where she majored in Special Education. Throughout her life, Paula held a deep fondness for individuals with special needs. As a caregiver at an adult group home, she often brought residents home to join in family dinners. During her 35-year career at Meijer, Paula especially loved teaching and working with her "special baggers". She also enjoyed seeing her regular customers and greeting them by name.

After retiring from Meijer, Paula worked with her devoted husband, Bruce, in their family business, Stephenson Tree Service. Bruce was the love of her life, and together they shared a passion for auto racing and treasure-hunting at estate sales and flea markets.

Paula loved to laugh and have fun.

She is survived by her sister, Pam (Kevin) Mitchell; her beloved dog and constant companion, Chauncey; her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; several caring aunts and uncles; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; as well as extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Beverly Dues; her loving husband, Bruce; and her newborn son, Wyatt Matthew Stephenson.

A memorial gathering will be held in Michigan at a later date. Her final resting place will be with her husband at Providence Cemetery in Ackerman, Mississippi.

Online condolences may be made at: www.pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to:

Children with Special Needs Fund

P.O. Box 30734

Lansing, MI 48909