Savana Crystal Stephens, age 16 of Waterford, died Monday, July 11, 2011, in an automobile accident. Born in Gainesville, FL on July 5, 1995, she is the daughter of Steve Stephens of Florida and Tina Stephens of Waterford.
Savana would have started her junior year this fall at Fort LeBoeuf High School where she worked hard academically as an honor student and was enrolled in AP classes. Her long range goal was to enter nursing school and earn a nursing degree. Also at Fort LeBoeuf, she played on the Girls’ Volleyball and Track teams.
From the age of 4, Savana showed an interest in dancing and was talented in all kinds of dance. Although she loved ballet, many will always remember her as a “country girl” who loved to put on her cowboy boots. Savana was the kind of girl who lit up a room, making friends and bonding with everyone she met. She especially loved children. Savana also had an artistic eye, showing talent as a budding photographer.
Savana was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, John Kaufman, and her uncle Michael Kaufman.
In addition to her parents, Savana is survived by her maternal grandmother, Geraldine Kaufman of Cambridge Springs; her paternal grandmother, Joyce Humes of Illinois; her aunts and uncles: Carol Allison and her husband, George, of Verona, PA; Jake Kaufman and his wife, Donna, of Edinboro; Donna Coburn and her husband, Rick, of Cambridge Springs; Charlie Kaufman and his wife, Ruth, of Mars, PA; Bob Kaufman and his wife, Sherri, of Santa Clarita, CA; Carla Gray and her husband, Mike, of Albion; Lisa Stephens and her husband, Ken, of Erie; Scott Humes and his wife, Shellie, of Charlotte, NC; and Misty Valestin and her husband, Phil, of IL; as well as many cousins.
Savana’s boyfriend, David Blewett, also died in the car accident on Monday, and calling hours will be observed for both of them on Thursday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford. A funeral service will be held for Savana on Friday at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Jack Risner of Erie First Assembly of God officiating. Interment will follow at Waterford Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.
Savana was my bestfriend, i miss her so much and this time has been really hard to get through. but i know tina is so strong and all of savana’s friends are here for her.
Tina, we’ve known each other for sooo very long!!! I remember all the get togethers when Mikey & Savannah used 2 play and run around together!!! I cannot imagine the loss you are experiencing right now but know that I am always here if you need me!!!
Love Ya Girl,
Kay Durr and family
My thoughts are with Tina and her family at the loss of precious Savana. I am so sorry for your painful loss – memories will help you heal.
Diane
There is one thing I think of when Savanah’s name is mentioned and that was of her infectious smile. She was a beautiful, talented girl and I know how much Carrie looked up to her as a mentor through her Fusion years. Tina, our deepest sympathy is extended to your family and all the families affected.
You are in our thoughts and prayers,
The Connell Family-Rich, Vickie, Carrie and Conner
Gainesville, FL
Our thoughts wish we could comfort you. Knowing there is no words or actions to do so, all we can do is let you know that Savannah and all who knew her are in our hearts wishing you comfort of knowing she is now in a place of peace.
Savana, I know you’re looking down and smiling at all the people whose lives you’ve impacted so greatly.
You left too soon, and I know you would have been successful in the life ahead of you. I miss you soo much it hurts. I’ve cried so much that there are no more tears left to cry. I’ll always cherish our friendship since the age of 2, and you’ll always be in my heart. It’s not goodbye, its only see you later. Love you to the moon and back
My deepest sympathy for your loss. I knew Savana from going to all of Mariah’s recitals. No words can say the pain I feel you are going through and hope the love people had for Savana will give you some peace. Sincerely, Mariah’s Grandma
Our thoughts and prayers are with Tina, Steve and the rest of Savana’s family. May your memories give you strength and comfort.
Tim, Peggy, Bobby, and Kristen Carney
Gainesville, FL
Savannah was such a beautiful angel and was taken away from us way too soon. All of our heart and love goes out to her family and David’s family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Dixon and Carmen
All of our love and sympathy to Savana’s family and friends. Cliff & Barb.
Our deepest love and thoughts go to Savana’s Family and friends. We are truley sorry for your lost.
Heather, Mike, Joan and Ray Dengel
David, Chrissy, Koda, and Luke Sharman
Seek God for comfort through this dark time in your life. He is the light. Listen quietly and you will hear a small still voice leading you and comforting you. I pray that all of you will think of Savana’s radiant smile that you see in all of her pictures everytime you feel a tear on your cheek. You will smile if you do this! Tina and Family, I love you and I am praying for you.
With much love and Sympathy,
Holly and Mariah
Our deepest heartfelt sympathy & love to all the family & friends.
Michael, Carla, Melanie, Mike II, Hannah, Peter, Katie, Luke, Ryan, Sarah, Kody, Avery & Kelsie of Albion, PA
Aunt Kay & Uncle Robert & all the family in KS.
All our love to all the family and all of Savana’s friends as well as her boyfriend’s family.
The Valestin’s
Simpson, Illinois