Who was Marjorie Maxine Stephens? John Legend pays tribute to grandmother who died days after her 91st birthday
Singer John Legend is mourning the loss of his grandmother, who died just days after celebrating her 91st birthday. He took to Instagram to pay a heartfelt tribute to Marjorie Maxine Stephens, sharing a series of pictures.
Paying tribute to his late grandmother, the singer wrote on the post, “My beautiful grandmother, Marjorie Maxine Stephens, left this world early this morning, just a few days after her 91st birthday. We are so grateful for the life she lived, for the love she shared with her many children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and beyond. She was the most caring and conscientious grandmother you could imagine.”
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“She still sent us all birthday cards with cash until her final days. She hosted our yearly Christmas celebrations until we literally couldn’t fit in her little pink house on Heard Avenue in Springfield, Ohio. She was active and full of curiosity and energy until her final days," he continued.
"She always had a story to tell and words of encouragement and love. She supported us and rooted for us unconditionally. I’m so glad she got to see the fruits of all she gave us. She got to travel the world with us, went to my first Grammys,” Legend added.
Who was Marjorie Maxine Stephens?
While not much is known about Marjorie’s personal life, she is said to have had a major influence on Legend’s interest in music. He was born to father Ronald Lamar Stephens, son of Majorie, and mother Phyllis Elaine. While his father was a drummer, his mother sang and directed the church choir. Meanwhile, his grandmother was a church organist who is said to have taught the young Legend to play gospel music and the songs that the choir would sing in church.
In his tribute to Majorie on Instagram, Legend has said that his grandmother “got to experience the successes of all her offspring.” He added, “We are the family we are, the individuals we are because of the love she poured into us. We are sad to lose her but most of all so appreciative of the full, blessed life she lived. May she Rest In Peace after running a great race.”
Fans share condolences
The singer’s moving eulogy left fans emotional and many shared their condolences in the comments. The majority of them sent their prayers to Legend’s family as they mourn the loss of the senior family member.
Charlie Puth also left a comment under Legend’s post saying, “I’m sorry for your loss bro. What a wonderful long life she lived!!! And will continue through your family!” While one fan commented, “You and your family are certainly in my thoughts and prayers. To God Be all the glory for a life well lived. Condolences to you,” another added, “You and your family are certainly in my thoughts and prayers. To God Be all the glory for a life well lived. Condolences to you.”