Agnes E. Stephen

AGNES “BOOTS” E. STEPHEN (nee Carlson) age 95, beloved wife of the late William Stewart Stephen; loving mother of Cheryl Wolenski (Gregory, deceased) and Diane Smith; devoted grandmother of Gregory Wolenski (O’Dea) and Tracy King (Ken); adored great-grandmother of Liam Browne, Isaac King, Nicholas King, Sophia Wolenski, and Sydney Wolenski; cherished daughter of the late Roland Carlson and Mabel Carlson (nee Nelson); dearest sister of the late Gordon Carlson (Josephine, deceased); lifelong friend of the Smoothies; dear aunt and great-aunt of many. 

Agnes was born on November 11, 1929, in Lakewood, Ohio, but made Wickliffe home for over 50 years before settling in Willoughby Hills the past 8 years. After graduating from West Tech High School in Cleveland, Ohio, she continued her education by attending art college. Using the knowledge and skills she had learned in her time there, Agnes was hired as the art director for Dalton. After her time at Dalton, Agnes started her own very successful jewelry business called Designs by Boots. She was best described as a social butterfly, and enjoyed doing yoga, participating in game nights, listening to jazz and music of all kinds, gardening, and coordinating her famous wine trips. Her life was fulfilled by the relationships she was able to cultivate over the years, and what she enjoyed the most was spending time with those she cared about, especially her group of Smoothies that she had known since kindergarten. Agnes had a natural curiosity for all things and was always looking to learn as much as she possibly could throughout her life. She always made you feel special while in her presence and celebrated every victory of yours, no matter how small. Agnes passed away peacefully on February 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy as a talented artist and a lovely woman in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held March 15, 2025, at 2pm at Willoughby Hills Methodist Church, 34201 Eddy Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094, followed by a coffee reception in the Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lake County Department on Aging and Meals on Wheels, 8520 East Ave., Mentor, Ohio 44060, by clicking HERE.

Cremation and Arrangements entrusted to THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS.