It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs. Bettye Poweel Stevens.

Bettye Powell Stevens was born on December 17, 1929, in Topeka, Kansas, to Hattie J. Phoenix and William B. Powell. She passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at The Landing retirement home in Panama City Beach, Florida, at the age of 96.

Professionally, Bettye was a speech therapist employed by Leon County Schools for decades until her retirement. Mrs. Stevens pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. in 1959 while attending Florida A &M University, where she earned a Master’s degree in Education. In the early 1960’s, Bettye help found and organize Troop 63, an all-Black Girl Scout troop, and served as co-leader for several years. Mrs. Stevens was an active member of Jack and Jill Incorporated while her children were young. Later, her community activities centered on her membership in The Links Inc. and became a founding member of Charmettes, Inc.

The children of Bettye Stevens include, Charon Nanita Stevens (deceased), Gayna Stevens Credle, PhD, and Toni Stevens Kincer. Bettye was blessed with many grandchildren: Terry C. McKeever RT; Sydni S. Credle PhD, PE; Dayna H. Credle, Pharm.D.; Megan M. Duncan PhD; and Kelen O. Duncan. Additionally, she cherished her great grandchildren: Natalie R. McKeever, Mia G. McKeever, Byron Duncan, Megan M. Duncan, Jewels M. Grier, Lillie N, Grier, Nathaniel W. Grier, Nefertiti S. Cambara, Lucien H. Cambara.
Funeral service will be 10:00 A.M. Saturday, January 31st at Bethel A.M.E. Church in Tallahassee, Florida. Interment will follow at Southside Cemetery.

On behalf of the staff and management of Strong & Jones Funeral Home, Inc., we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Mrs. Bettye Powell Stevens.