Celebr a tion of theLiving ByYvette Porter Moore

Contributing Writer

Family and friends came together on February 11, 2023, to Celebrate the “Living” life of Laura Dell Stevens, “Momma Laura” and her favorite name, “Miss Bossy.” This was not a celebration of a life that transitioned, but one that is still living and being a blessing amongst the living. Miss Stevens recently celebrated her 80th birthday on February 9, and wanted to receive good words of a life well lived and her flowers while she is still here to receive.

New Life Baptist Church was filled with Laura Steven’s closest friends and loved ones. Attendees were greeted by the staff of Preferred Cremation and Burial. As the guests waited for the appearance of their honoree, there was lively conversation, and the vibe of happiness through- out the sanctuary.

The Altar was decorated beautifully with flowers of white and purple. Laura’s throne was decorated with flowers with a white pillow with silver lettering with the word “Queen.” A stool next to the throne sat a pillow with a beautiful crown for the beautiful Laura Stevens. The event was officiated by Larry “Preacherman” Thompson.

The Queen of the hour was serenaded to One In A Million by Larry Graham, as she was escorted by her son, Curtis Ford and her Grandson Nasir Samson Ford to her throne. As she sat, her son crowned her.

Each guest had an Order of Service as you would receive for a Homegoing. There was an Old & New Testament reading. Prayer and a silent reading of Sister Laura Stevens Biography.

Some of what was read was that Laura is outspoken and spunky, and never hesitates to tell it like it is. She was born in Shreveport, Louisiana to Samson Grand and Rosie Lee Alexander, being the second of seven children.

Laura graduated from high school and had one son, Curtis Lynn Ford, who was born in London, England. In 1971, her father convinced her to move to San Diego where she still resides today.

Laura turned her passion for cooking into a career and purpose-volunteering for many organizations, including George Stevens Senior Center. She has had long years of employment at the San Diego Physician Surgeon Hospital, Marriott Hotel and the Edgemoor Hospital Nursing Home, where she retired after 20 years.

Laura is also a part of the Eastern Stars in the State of California Chapter Daughter of Love, Number 203. She has earned and served in many offices: Worthy Matron of Xante’, appointed the prestigious position of Grand Marshal for the Garden of Eden Grand Chapter. She was elevated to The Exalted Order of Amaranth, The Heroines of Jericho, The Lady Knights of Templar, The Ancient Arabic Order Daughter of Sphinx and upon being elevated to her final and highest degree of an Eastern Star-The Degree of Rose of Seven Seals.

As there was a musical selection of “Give Me My Flowers” sung by Sister Camila “Toot” Bell, 12 men presented roses to Sister Laura. The sanctuary was filled with praise and songs of worship. Pastor Troy P. Owens, Sr. sang “I Won’t Complain, and then gave Sister Laura Word of Encouragement.

Other Ministers present gave Sister Laura beautiful words and the final remarks were given by Larry “Preacherman” Thompson. After the benediction was given, a Recessional summed up the event. As “Still Here,” was sung. Before Ms. Laura was led out, she took a photo with all the men at her service. She was well pleased.