Blanch Stevens

Blanch Stevens, age 72, of Lamar, passed away Friday, October 23, 2015 at her home surrounded by family.      Blanch was born November 26, 1942, in Barton County, Missouri, to James and Cora (Hayward) McCulley.  She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bob McCulley and an infant brother; sisters, Flossie Tuck, Pearl McMackin, Barbara McCulley and an infant sister.      On June 6, 1961, at Tijuana, Mexico, Blanch married the love of her life, Lewis “Steve” Stevens and they made their home and raised their two children, Stevi and Gary, in Lamar.  Many will remember Blanch as their hairdresser and confidant, as she worked as a cosmetologist and owned and operated beauty shops for many years.  She was an accomplished artist, working in oils and tole painting, inspiring many budding artists who attended her art classes.  She was a wonderful cook, sharpening her skills while cooking at her sister’s Tuck’s Café.  She was a self-taught quilter and enjoyed collecting antiques.  Her first priority, however, was always her family, and her greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.      Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Steve, of the home; two children, Stevi (Doug) Robertson and Gary (Sheila) Stevens all of Lamar; two brothers, Bud (Gloria) McCulley and Earl “Butch” (Suzie) McCulley of Lamar; three sisters, Mabel Jones, Reeds, Missouri, Ida May Kozoil, Joplin, and Janie Freeman, Lamar; seven grandchildren, Cassie, Kyley, Brian, Tyler, Caleb, Sami Jo, and Dylon; 13 great-grandchildren, Braden, Kaden, Haley, Araya, Xander, Isaiah, Lauren, Jackson, Peyton, Gavin, Victoria, Hudson, and Kole; and a special niece and caregiver, Karen Tuck Johnson.      Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, October 29th at Daniel Funeral Home.  Burial will be in Lake Cemetery.      Memorial contributions are suggested to Susan G. Komen for the Cure in care of Daniel Funeral Home.