Barbara Ann Stephens

Barbara Ann Stephens of Chester, Pennsylvania, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025. Barbara was born on October 23rd, 1950, in Dunn, North Carolina, to Erma and James Jacobs. Years later, after moving to Delaware County from North Carolina, she married John Stephesn 1969. They relocated to East Orange, New Jersey, where they raised two sons, John Stephens Jr. and Shujaa Stephens.
Education:
Barbara valued education and pursued it with dedication. She attended the old Chester High School and graduated from Chichester High School in Boothwyn, Pennsylvania. Barbara then completed four years at Fayetteville State University in Fayetteville, North Carolina, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. Barbara's time in school helped shape her passion and prepared her for her career.
Employment:
Barbara built a remarkable career as a chemist, contributing to groundbreaking advancements in the field, including cancer research and laboratory roles with companies such as DuPont and Pfizer. She expanded her impact in healthcare through years of service at Mt. Kisco Hospital in New York. Beyond science and health care, she demonstrated dedication and versatility by actively supporting the family’s businesses—Erma’s Travel Agency in Chester, PA and Erma’s Fashion, a clothing store in Chester, PA—helping both to thrive. Her early roles at Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Abraham & Strauss Department stores, and the Duty-Free Shop in the Philadelphia Airport, illustrated her adaptability across diverse industries, combining to make a multifaceted professional journey.
Predeceased:
By her parents, Mrs. Erma Jacobs and Mr. James Jacobs, and her sister, Maggie Jacobs-Johnson.
Barbara leaves to cherish her loving memory: Her two sons, John and Shujaa Stephens. Two sisters, Betty Laws and Angela Jacobs, and her brother, James Jacobs. She is also lovingly remembered by her twelve grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

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