Betty Lynn Shoemaker Stephenson, age 71, of Bridge City, Texas, passed away on Sunday, May 10, 2026, in Beaumont, Texas. She was born in Orange, Texas, on January 23, 1955, to the late Delmar Dean “DD” and Betty Shoemaker.
Betty served as the registrar at Bridge City Middle School for over 32 years, where she was known for her cheerful demeanor and upbeat spirit. She loved to travel as much as she could, especially to national parks. A passionate member of the Golden Triangle Audubon Society, she enjoyed taking photographs of birds and wildlife. Betty shared her nature photography in several art shows. Her love for the natural world also extended to scuba diving and water skiing. She found joy in taking time to enjoy the simple things God created for us to experience.
Betty is survived by her beloved husband of 51 years, Clarence “DD” Stephenson; her sons, Casey and wife Brittany Stephenson of Austin, and Scott and wife Kasie Stephenson of Bridge City; and her granddaughter, Skylar Stephenson. She is also survived by her siblings, Ricky Shoemaker of Orange and Roger Shoemaker of California; her niece, Ricci Hughes and husband, Kyle; her sister-in-law, Darlene Jones; and other loving family members.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, Texas with visitation beginning prior to the service at 9:00 a.m. Officiating will be Mr. Kirk Ellender. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.
Serving as pallbearers will be Clarence “D.D.” Stephenson, Casey Stephenson, Scott Stephenson, Rod Sheppard, Bubba Stephenson, and Ricci Hughes.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Golden Triangle Audubon Society. You may mail cash or check to: P.O. Box 1292 Nederland, Texas, 77627.
