Stevia Webster

Stevia Christine Webster, age 86, of New Haven, Indiana went to be with her Heavenly Father on Tuesday, October 4. She was born December 15, 1935 in South Whitley, Indiana. She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Myrtle Bates. She was married to her husband, Bill Webster, for 67 years. Together, they raised five children while living in New Haven, Indiana. 

 

Stevia loved her family as it grew and multiplied. She loved hosting family holiday events at their Powers Street home in New Haven during Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. She and her husband took many summer camping trips when their children were growing. She loved tent camping, hiking, and campfires. Later she and her husband purchased a cabin and land in Brown County where they spent many summer weeks.

 

Stevia had many hobbies which she developed into self-employment opportunities over the years. She was a seamstress, writer, oil paint artist/teacher, Avon representative, a doll doctor and owner of the doll shop, Dolly Heaven in New Haven, Indiana. She loved restoring old and new dolls to a better condition. She found ways to minister to those who walked through the shop door. She was a very busy mother of five children, but also busy exploring and implementing her own interests. In the early years of Lifeway Wesleyan Church, she was the director of the CYC (Christian Youth Crusaders), a children’s ministry. She also served on various church committees during building projects. She loved history and was an active member of the New Haven Area Heritage Association. She authored the book Images of America New Haven,  

 

Stevia had a heart for people here on earth. She nurtured her friendships and valued them deeply. She found quiet opportunities to help people in need of assistance. 

 

Stevia talked about how God always placed “stepping stones” in her life as a guide for her next adventures. As she looked back on her past, she could see where God lead her into various life experiences. Very recently she said there were no more “stepping stones”, and that’s when she realized God wanted her to focus on herself and her needs in this last leg of her journey here on earth. She showed strength and courage as she let go of this world and stepped over into the loving arms of Jesus.

 

Stevia is survived by five children, Dan (Linda) Webster, Nanette (Rich) Lee, Tia (Dan) Vorndran, Tim (Donna) Webster, Andy (Michelle) Webster; sister, Marcia Bates; 13 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; and 1 great, great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, and husband.

 

 

Memorials may be given to Lifeway Wesleyan Church, 7722 Moeller Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46806.

 

Fond memories may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com