Lois McElvy Stookey was a beautiful, selfless and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She passed away at age 83 on March 7th, 2024, surrounded by her family and loved ones.

Lois was born July 29, 1940, in Quincy, Florida on a small farm. After losing their mother at a young age, Lois and her siblings survived difficult times by forming an identity of hard work, resilience and unwavering optimism. She is preceded in death by brothers Cleo Brown (Marjorie), Lewis McElvy, and Lawrence McElvy (Willeen) and sister Dora Galloway (George). She is survived by her sister Anna Warren (the late Bill Warren).

After graduating from Attapulgus High School, Lois married James "Ted" Courson in 1961 and moved to Titusville, Florida where they raised three children. Lois was a Data Administrator at McDonnell Douglas then stayed home to raise their children. She returned to work for United Space Alliance and retired in 2003.

Lois was a gentle and kind soul who enjoyed life's simple pleasures. She lived her life with grace and dignity and leaves a legacy of positivity, integrity and self-sacrifice. She could find a silver lining in any situation and would do anything for her many loved ones. Her favorite moments were those spent visiting with family who often gathered to enjoy her delicious meals. She enjoyed long walks in the grove, growing vegetables in her garden, caring for her many fruit trees (especially mangoes), and watching the birds from her front porch. Lois had a strong faith and was a member of Indian River City United Methodist Church. She looked forward to Sunday services and meeting with her family life group.

As a child, grandchild or friend of Lois, you could always count on a card for every celebration and an encouraging phone call during life's many challenges. She reveled in hearing about her family and their adventures and was quick to fill you in on everyone's latest accomplishments. She was so proud of each of her kids and grandkids. Lois was the center of so many lives and her absence will be deeply felt.

Lois is survived by her husband, Stan Stookey; her children Kevin Courson and wife Christina, Stephanie Annis and husband Thomas, Derick Courson and wife Sarah and her grandchildren Whitney, Jonathan, Jocelyn, Hazel and Graham; and great grandchildren Ryland, River, Gabriel and Nathaniel.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Women's Center, 400 Julia Street, Titusville, FL https://www.womenscenter.net/donate