On June 21, 2023, Ms. Lessie Stephens laid her burdens down and transitioned to another realm. Ms. Lessie was 84 years old. A former Lake Apopka farmworker, and a member of the Farmworker Association of Florida African American/Black Lake Apopka farmworker leadership group, Ms. Lessie recalled and shared with others her experiences as a farmworker in Florida. Soft-spoken, sweet, and with a beautiful and winning smile that warmed the heart, Ms. Lessie participated in meetings, gatherings, and events at FWAF, and in the Lake Apopka Farmworker Memorial Quilt Project. She also shared her personal life story as part of the Samuel Proctor Oral History Program of the University of Florida.
Ms. Lessie had worked at a local ornamental plant nursery in Apopka for many years, where she became knowledgeable about plants and mete many friends and community members. She loved getting dressed up and going to church, where she sang in a gospel group called Voices of Faith. Ms. Lessie remains forever in your hearts and memories, even as she lives on through her family and the legacy she has left behind.
Rest in Peace, Ms. Lessie.
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