Stella Kathryn Stow

Stella Kathryn Stow, age 82, of Grants Pass, died October 17, 2018 at her home.

Stella was born October 7, 1936 in Eden, Idaho to Pinkney & Birdie Freel. At six weeks old she moved with her family first to Blythe, California then to Livingston, California. During World War II the family lived in Richmond, California before moving to Kerby, Oregon in 1946. She graduated from Illinois Valley High School in Cave Junction and also worked at several local cafes. In January 1956 in Reno, Nevada, Stella married Harley L. Stow. They lived in Crescent City, California where Stella went to work as a telephone operator for Pacific Telephone Company. When Harley’s job sent them to Sacramento, Stella raised their daughter, sold Avon products, worked part-time at a department store, and helped care for nine children. They returned to Oregon in 1989 to be closer to their daughter and grandchildren. Stella worked as a cashier at North’s Buffet in Medford before retiring. In July 1998 they moved to Grants Pass.

Stella’s hobbies included sewing, reading, crocheting, knitting, gardening, and crossword and sudoku puzzles.

Survivors include her husband, Harley L. Stow of Grants Pass; a daughter, Susan Lee Fullerton of Medford; brother, Richard E. Freel Sr of Coffeyville, Kansas; two grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Odessa F. Rector; and two brothers, Marion E. Freel and Pinkney H. Freel Jr.

A viewing will be from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., Monday, October 29, 2018 at Hull & Hull Funeral Directors.

A graveside service will begin at 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 29, 2018 at Eagle Point National Cemetery.