Alfreda Lorene Stephens

Alfreda Lorene Stephens passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025, in Oakley, Kansas. She was born October 30, 1924, at the family home in rural Sheridan County, Kansas, to John and Katherine (Zimmerman) Kruse. The sixth of twelve children, Alfreda learned early the importance of responsibility and a sense of humor while helping care for her six rowdy younger brothers.

She graduated from Leoville High School in 1941 and continued her education at Marymount College in Salina, where she worked as a nanny while earning her elementary teaching certificate. She later taught in rural schools at Rexford and Seguin, sharing her patience and kindness with many children.

A blind date introduced her to Harold Joseph Stephens, a World War II veteran and the love of her life. They married in June of 1946 and built a life together on a farm north of Grinnell, Kansas. Their marriage was rooted in faith, devotion to family, and hard work, and they were lifelong members of St. Paul’s Parish in Angelus.

Alfreda sewed the children’s clothes, grew and preserved food from the garden, prepared three meals a day for the family and hired men, refinished and upholstered furniture, and weathered the tough conditions of life as a farmer’s wife. Angel food cake was made on Monday, and on Tuesday the egg yolks were used to make noodles. Nothing was wasted, everything was well used, and everyone was well cared for. No words were minced—no was no, yes was yes, black was black, white was white, and “I love you” meant you were always safe.

Alfreda and Harold were blessed with six children: James Lee, Linda Marie, Denice Louise, Michael John, Loren Joseph, and their infant son, John Clement, who passed away in 1958. In 1973, Alfreda designed the home where she and Harold would spend their later years together. After Harold’s passing in February 2001, Alfreda remained in her home until 2024, living independently into her ninety-ninth year.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold, and sons James Lee and John Clement and granddaughter Katie Stephens. She is lovingly remembered by her children Linda Grote, Denice Morris, Michael (Patricia) Stephens, and Loren (Teresa) Stephens; daughter-in-law Alberta Kuhlman; twenty grandchildren; forty-eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

Her concern was always for Harold and her family. Faith and honesty were her code. She had an innate sense, often knowing what was best for her children before they knew themselves. She will be greatly missed by all.

Visitation is 5-7:00 pm, with a Vigil at 7:00 pm, Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Angelus. The funeral service is at 10:00 am Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Angelus with burial in the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Logan County Senior Living and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com