Obituaries

Elizabeth Stapper

September 24, 1933 - October 7, 2025

Elizabeth “Arlene” Stapper, age 92, passed peacefully sleeping into arms of the Lord on October 7, 2025. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, a true Southern Girl, loving & believing deeply in our Lord, Jesus Christ. She was born September 24, 1933, married her one & only love on June 24, 1950, and remained a devoted wife & constant companion until his passing in 2023, also age 92. She lived her life rooted in love, faith and family. She also was a loving mother, a proud grandmother and great- grandmother, a cherished sister, and a loyal friend to many. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her children: Doretta Kay Brown and husband Bruce Brown; and Karen Denise Connelly and husband Kenneth Connelly. She is also survived by her loving granddaughters: Stephanie Wells (husband Scott Wells) and Alyssa VanValkenburg (husband Cory VanValkenburg), as well as two cherished great-grandchildren: Abigail VanValkenburg and Cade VanValkenburg. She is also survived by her younger sister and sister- in-law, and several nieces and nephews. Her greatest joy was laughing, music & dancing, but mostly spending cherished time with her family, all together, loving, laughing and playing games, not to mention sharing sweet & delicious baked goodies. Elizabeth “Arlene” will be laid to rest with husband Theodore W. Stapper at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida. She was a gift to so many and will be greatly missed until we are united in God’s Kingdom. Gathering of Family and Friends will be on October 17, 2025 from 3-5pm at Central Florida Casket Store and Funeral Chapel, 2090 East Edgewood Drive, Lakeland, Florida 33803.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above.” – James 1:17