Edna Cucksey Stephens

Edna Cucksey Stephens, 77, of Holly, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026. She was born on October 13th, 1948, in Brandenburg, Kentucky, to Othel and Vivian Williams. Edna married the love of her life, Mark Stephens, on July 20th, 1991. Together, they shared 38 years of unwavering love, devotion, and partnership, building a life centered on family, friendship, generosity, and helping others. Edna dedicated 26 years of her life to education with Lake Orion Community Schools. She had a special way with children — each one drawn to her kindness, patience, and genuine care. A lifelong champion of teachers and community, she was a proud member of Alpha Delta Kappa since 1978, an organization committed to educational excellence and scholarship, and served on its State Board beginning in 1982. After retiring from teaching, Edna continued her passion for literacy by founding EDCO Publishing, an Auburn Hills-based children’s publishing company. Through her work, she co-founded a children’s literacy organization and authored and published books that reached schools across the country and into Canada. Among her most beloved works was You and Me Make Three, a compassionate story helping children navigate the challenges of divorce, and Looking at Animals with Mr. Etch a Sketch, a playful early reader for young children. She also co-authored Core Democratic Values with Rock U.S.A., bringing civic education to life in the classroom. Edna’s goal was simple and steadfast: to make sure every child had access to a book that spoke to them. She had a deep love for travel, cooking, tennis, and golf, but most of all, she cherished her family — especially her children and grandchildren. Her life revolved around helping others, and she gave generously to anyone in need. Edna will be remembered for her strong spirituality, her generous heart, and her gift for bringing people together. She especially loved the holidays, often hosting large family gatherings filled with warmth and joy. She is survived by her beloved husband, Mark Stephens; her son, Scot (Meren) Cucksey; her daughter, Cari Cucksey (Vince) Iafano; her brothers, Stanley (Amy) Williams, Donnie (Ann) Williams, Scotty (Mandy) Williams, Clint (Cathy) Williams, and Ricky Williams; her sisters, Martha Ruebelman, Kay Stephenson (Jimmy), Fay Bennett (Ricky), and Lois Wilson; and her cherished grandchildren, Will Cucksey and Orion Iafano, and many loving nieces and nephews. Edna was preceded in death by her parents, Othel and Vivian Williams, and her beloved brother, Danny Williams. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Michigan Alpha Lambda, in honor of Edna’s lifelong dedication to education and teachers.

Edna Cucksey Stephens

October 13, 1948 - March 23, 2026