Phung Thi Stephenson, born December 5, 1951, in Saigon, Vietnam, passed away on January 19 in Yucaipa, California.

She was born to Chien Thi Luu and Khuyen Van Phan, both of Saigon. Phung spent her early years in Vietnam, where she completed her education through the second grade before dedicating her life to hard work and family. She later became a baker, a profession she held for many years and one that reflected her strong work ethic and care for others.

Phung was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her six children: Tamara Stebbins, Leann Mellas, Jon Stephenson, Robert Stephenson, Melissa Miller, and Michael Stephenson; her sister, Song Thi Phan; 19 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. Her legacy lives on through the many generations she nurtured and loved.

Phung Thi Stephenson will be remembered for her resilience, dedication to her family, and the quiet strength with which she lived her life.

In honor of Mom's deep love for animals—especially her beloved rescue, Tiffany—we kindly ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Yucaipa Animal Placement Society (YAPS). We know she would be so touched to see other pets find their forever homes in her name. https://www.yaps.org/