Rhonda Stephens Lockman

Rhonda Stephens Lockman passed away Thursday, December 31 after a brief but difficult battle with cancer. She was the daughter of J.D. and Barbara Stephens.

Rhonda is survived by her husband, Bill Lockman of Sylva, her father, J.D. Stephens of Sylva, one brother, Kirk of Webster, and her devoted dog, Latte.

Rhonda was a graduate of Sylva-Webster High School, Southwestern Community College, and Montreat College. She taught at the Lyndon B. Johnson Job Corps until her retirement in 2018.

Rhonda was a warm and loving person as evidenced by her many life-long friends. Many of her former students adopted her as a surrogate mother figure and stayed in touch with her to share their achievements. She often said young people who are shown kindness and respect will repay it tenfold.

No services are planned for Rhonda. A private interment will be held at Fairview Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, consider making a contribution to United Christian Ministries of Jackson County (ucmhelp.com) or a charity of your choice.