Ella Bright Stephens

Ella Louise Bright-Stephens, 74, of Peletier, passed away on Friday, February 16, 2024, at Carteret Health Care in Morehead City.

The family will celebrate Ella's life privately.

Ella Louise Bright-Stephens, a beacon of selflessness and love, passed away on February 16, 2024, at the age of 74, after a valiant battle with an undetermined infection and lung cancer. Born on November 21, 1949, in Onslow County, Ella's life was a vibrant tapestry woven with compassion, vitality, and an unwavering spirit that touched countless lives. Her final moments were spent in the serene surroundings of Carteret County, enveloped by the love of her family.

Ella's journey was marked by a profound commitment to caring for others, a path she pursued with fervor after earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Throughout her illustrious career, she attended to the needs of numerous patients across several states, leaving an indelible mark on each life she touched. Ella's compassionate nature found its pinnacle in her work at Western State Hospital in Seattle, Washington, where her nurturing presence was a source of comfort and healing.

But it was Ella's visionary leadership in helping to establish the Luckett House that truly showcased her dedication to humanity. This haven became a place of solace and dignity for the most at-risk individuals, offering them the warmth of a real home environment. Ella's unwavering commitment to her profession and the people she served was a testament to her spirited and loving nature.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ella was a woman of many passions. Her green thumb brought to life a world of vibrant flowers and verdant gardens, her love for fishing and wildlife reflected her deep connection with nature, and her passion for photography captured the essence of the world around her. Ella's extensive collection of photographs stands as a visual legacy of her ability to find beauty in every moment and every creature.

Ella's life was a living example of the power of love and selflessness. She was a source of strength and inspiration to her beloved husband, George Stephens, and their daughter, Angela Becker. Her role as a grandmother to Alex and Austin Becker was filled with joy and laughter, and the sparkle in her eyes was never brighter than when she was with her great-grandchildren.

Ella's sibling bonds were equally strong, with her brother Richard Bright and his wife Dorothy, and her sister Dolly McIntosh and her husband Danny, all sharing in the rich tapestry of her life. Niece Cheryl Salter, Molly Brown, and nephew Mack McIntosh, along with numerous cousins and extended family members, felt the warmth of Ella's generous spirit. Her family, a vast network of individuals bound by love, will carry forward her legacy of kindness and compassion.

The words that best describe Ella—selfless, spirited, loving—only begin to scratch the surface of a life lived with boundless enthusiasm and an unquenchable desire to make the world a better place. Her story is not one of sadness, but a celebration of a life that serves as a guiding light for all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As we reflect on Ella's life, let us not dwell on the loss but be motivated by her example. Let her memory inspire us to cultivate our gardens, to care deeply for our fellow beings, and to capture the beauty of the world through our own lenses. Ella's legacy is a call to action, to live with purpose, to cherish every connection, and to spread love with the same relentless energy she did.

Ella Louise Bright-Stephens may have departed from this earthly realm, but her spirit remains an unwavering flame that will continue to illuminate the paths of those she has left behind. Her life's work and passions will forever be etched in the hearts of her family and the many lives she enriched. Let us honor her memory by embracing the world with open arms and a generous heart, just as she did every single day.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net.

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.