Leanna Stephens

Leanna Gail Stephens (Pershall)

October 20, 2026

Leanna Gail Stephens (Pershall), 76, went home to be with The Lord on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, passing peacefully at her home in Springfield, Missouri.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas, to the late Harold and Janelle Pershall, Leanna spent the vast majority of her life in Arizona, where her roots and heart truly belonged. For the past two years, she lived in Springfield, Missouri, to live with her children so they could care for her health and surround her with love. She lived a life grounded in faith, family, and joy, and is now reunited in Heaven with her beloved parents and her devoted husband, John Stephens.

Leanna spent most of her career as a beautician, bringing warmth, light, and confidence to everyone who sat in her chair. Known for her jovial spirit, tender heart, and boundless love, Leanna never met a stranger—if you knew her, you knew you were loved. She found immense happiness in life’s simple pleasures, whether it was enjoying some kind of chocolate, trying her luck at the casino (“ling ling”), or spending quality time surrounded by those she cherished.

The Stephens family was not small, and Leanna’s love expanded to match it completely. Her legacy of faith and love lives on through her family:

Her Children: Geoffrey Stephens and his wife Rhonda; Aliza Caves and her husband Jaimie; Chad Stephens and his wife Kayleen; and Brad Stephens and his wife Sarah.

Her Siblings: Joy Pemberton and her husband John; Paula Simpson and her husband Steve; Denise Hoskins and her spouse Robert; and Pete Pershall and his wife Shon.

Her Extended Family: She leaves behind many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces, nephews, and their spouses, all of whom brought endless joy to her heart.

Leanna was a beacon of grace and joy whose faith sustained her and whose love comforted all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort and peace knowing she is resting in the arms of the Savior.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.