Barbara Will Stevens, age 87 of Gainesville, FL passed away peacefully on Thursday January 26, 2017 at her home, surrounded by her family. Barbara was born in Ft. Lauderdale, FL on October 23, 1929 to Lawrence E. and Anne Williams Will.
As a child, Barbara lived in Belle Glade, Florida, where she completed high school in 1947. She graduated from Florida State University in 1951, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. Barbara attended the University of Florida where she was accepted into the College of Law, however, her love of teaching young children motivated her decision to pursue a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of North Florida, graduating in 1985.
Barbara married Albert C. Stevens on June 15, 1956, and resided in Lake Worth, Florida until relocating to Gainesville in 1967. Barbara taught kindergarten through grades 6 in public and private schools in Broward, Palm Beach, Alachua, and Levy Counties. Barbara taught third grade at Rolling Green Academy in Alachua, Florida. Barbara retired from teaching at Bronson Elementary School in Bronson, FL in 1991.
Barbara spent her retirement years traveling with Albert in their RV on numerous trips throughout the United States and Canada. Barbara was an accomplished pianist and an avid reader. She enjoyed riding horses on the family ranch, had a great love for gardening, cooking, sewing and enjoyed the companionship of her beloved dachshunds.
Barbara was preceded in death by her brother Charles Rogers Will, and is survived by her loving husband of 60 years Albert C. Stevens, daughter Lauranne M. Stevens, Gainesville, Fl and a son Claiborne W. Stevens, St. Augustine, Fl and four grandchildren, Charles W. Stevens, Gainesville, FL; Albert C. Stevens II, St. Augustine, FL; Stephanie M. Stevens, St. Augustine; Caroline Stevens, Lake Worth, FL; and great-grand son, Cohen.
The family would like to express their deep gratitude to Visiting Angel, Jennifer Wilson, C.N.A., for her devoted and attentive care of Barbara; Michelle Braden, RN and the Staff of Haven Hospice; and the UF Shands Stroke Care team who assisted in her care.
Graveside Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday January 31, 2017 at Hillcrest Memorial Park 6411 Parker Avenue West Palm Beach, FL. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Haven Hospice 4200 NW 90th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32606.
