2 Timothy 4:7-8

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

On Friday, May 21, 2021 our Lord and Savior decided it was time to call Stephanie Bendrell Oates to join him in his heavenly home.

Stephanie was born July 25, 1982 to Bennie Oates and Brenda Oates in Fayetteville, NC.

Stephanie attended Clinton Elementary School. Because of her father's military background, at the age of nine, they relocated to Germany where she attended school there. After returning stateside, Stephanie attended the rest of her school year in Winston-Salem, NC. She also attended various churches of her choice.

Stephanie was a hardworking mother, who always provided for her children. She worked at Hanes Dye & Finishing for several years. Stephanie's favorite color was blue, especially Carolina blue. She was always a person who would speak her mind in any situation.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents Lessie Mae Oates, Leroy and Kelly Odell and Kornegay Bennett; eight uncles; and nine aunts.

Stephanie leaves to cherish her memories her father Bennie Oates of Georgia; mother, Brenda Oates of Winston-Salem, NC; three children, Bria Lashil Lumley, Brandon Scott Lumley, and Ikeshia Nicole Oates-Barr; one grandson, Landyn Dominique Caldwell; siblings, Sabrina Lessie Oates, Ebony Oates, Bennie Oates, II, Willie Mainor, Anthony Mainor, Dion McLamb, Tyki L. Oates, Brian Carey, Kimberly Childs, and Tiffany Oates; seven uncles, Henry Oates (Doreen), Jimmy Oates (Virginia), Elder Ronnie Oates (Tiffany), Roy Bennett, Jr., Bruce Bennett (Elder Minnie) Tronnie Williams (Beverly) and Larry Frazier (Patricia); ten aunts, Alice, Gennie, Geraldine, Peggy, Angeline, Bernice, Faye, Louise, Wilhemina, and one special aunt she loved dearly, Eva Bell; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and other loved ones.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 6:00pm Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at Russell Funeral Home.

Private funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 2, 2021 with Bishop Dr. Sir Walter L. Mack, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Woodland Cemetery.