Updated: Obituary for Jacqueline “Jackie” Stephens

Updated: 11/12/2026 at 2:54 pm

Jacqueline “Jackie” Stephens, 72, passed into the loving arms of the Lord at her home on November 11 at 5:25 p.m. after a long battle with ALS. She was born on June 5, 1954, in Kenton, Ohio, to Jack and Shirley Alexander.

Family came first for Jackie. You could hardly get through a conversation with her without hearing how proud she was of Kelli and Tyler. She drove Kelli to dance lessons and continued helping with recitals long after she stopped working at Cynergy Dance Academy. She never missed one of Tyler’s football games. Whatever her kids were doing, they could look out into the crowd and find Mom cheering them on.

Jackie and her husband, Michael, shared more than 50 years together. As ALS progressed and Jackie needed round-the-clock care, Mike cared for her with patience, tenderness, and devotion. The way he showed up for her every day was a testament to their love.

Jackie worked at Honda, ATI, and Cynergy Dance Academy. She was a member of the Kenton Elks, the Kenton Moose, the MRS Mother’s Club, and First Methodist Church in Kenton.

Jackie fell in love with Michigan football after moving to Michigan. If you knew her, you knew where she stood on game day. Even her wheelchair had to be maize and blue. She loved Shifferly Road Band, too, and it was only fitting that she was wearing one of their shirts when she passed.

Jackie is survived by her husband, Michael Stephens, and her children, Kelli Stephens (Allison Knepper) and Tyler Stephens. She also leaves behind Libby Stephens Martin (Michael) and Carrie Inmon, whom she loved as her own daughters. She is survived by her sister, Jill Alexander Rohling (husband Rick), and many nieces and nephews. She treasured her lifelong best friend Diane, her Cancun buddies George and Deb, and Shelly, who stayed close through the very end.

Jackie was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Shirley Alexander, and her brothers, Joseph and John Alexander.
Jackie’s family extends a special thank-you to Tru Blue Hospice and Palliative Care in St. Mary’s, Ohio and Universal Home Health and Hospice. Their kindness and support went above and beyond for Jackie and her family.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced. The Price-McElroy Funeral Home in Kenton is assisting the family with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Team Gleason or Tru Blue Hospice.

Online condolences may be expressed @pricefh.net.

The next time the band starts playing or Michigan takes the field, take a moment to remember Jackie and how much she loved them. And if you’re cheering on someone you love, cheer a little louder for her. She’d have done the same for you.

Jackie loved the beach, and her family has no doubt she finally has her toes in the sand again.

Go Blue, Jackie. We’ll be cheering with you.