Obituary of Nancy Stevens

"I love you my darling." With these final words, spoken January 28 to her beloved husband Peter of 52 years, Nancy (Elias) Stevens passed into the arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, leaving behind a treasured legacy as an ever loving wife, mother, and grandmother; and as a dedicated teacher and church servant. Born in Akron in 1933 to the late George and Celia Elias, Nancy spent her entire 79 years in the Akron area. She graduated from Buchtel High School, Kent State University and received her masters at The University of Akron. She taught music for 30 years in the Cuyahoga Falls school system. "Mrs. Stevens was one of the most inspiring teachers in my school years. It was because of her that I decided to become a teacher," remembered Sam Salem School teacher Kelly Noles, who was named the 2005 Akron Public School Teacher of the Year. Nancy was a life long member of Akron's St. George Orthodox Church where she met her husband Peter. She devoted her musical gift to the church, where she founded the choir in 1955, served as director for 35 years, and continued to sing in the choir for another 25 years. In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her brother Eddie Elias and her sister Norma (Tom) Balaj. She is survived by her husband Peter; children Greg (Glenys); Celiaann (Randy) Kulmala; John (Ewelina); grandchildren John; Lorraine (Stephen) Rider; Douglas; Adam; Forrest; Gregory; sister, Jacquelyn (Richard) Wilson; sister-in-law Margaret Elias; and special cousin and friend Jerrie Elias; as well as a legion of nieces, nephews. cousins, and extended family members. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4 to 8 Pm at St. George Orthodox Church, 3204 Ridgewood Rd., Akron, 44333, where a Parastas will be held at 7:30 Pm. The funeral service will take place at the church on Friday 11:00 Am where Mrs. Stevens will lie in state for one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to St. George Orthodox Church Building Fund or Hospice of Summa c\o Summa Foundation, 525 East Market Street, Suite 2D, Akron, Ohio 44304.