2 Timothy 4:7-8: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

Ruby Loura Zachary Stevens, affectionately known as "Granny" to many, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on May 2, 2026. Born on February 4, 1932, in St. Helena Parish, Louisiana, Loura lived a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. She was the beloved youngest daughter of Dudley I. and Louella Robertson Zachary, who preceded her in death along with her husband, Monroe Stevens, her brothers, Erwin and Lester, sister Vera, their spouses, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Though she did not have children of her own, Loura's nurturing spirit touched the lives of many. Her legacy of love and guidance continues through the family she leaves behind. Her beloved niece, Carla Fitzhugh (Jerry) of Chesbrough, Louisiana, whom she regarded as her daughter. Her cherished "grandchildren" Bailey Anthony (Garret) of Chesbrough, LA; Coleton Bennett (Michaela) of Gillsburg, MS; and Katie Fitzhugh of Chesbrough, LA. Including her "great grandchildren" Cannon, Collin, and Oakleigh Bennett, and Gabriel and Liam Anthony. As well as her nieces and nephews and great nieces & nephews of both her Zachary & Stevens families.

On August 12, 1952, Loura married her beloved husband of 45 years, Monroe Stevens and together they shared a beautiful journey filled with love, hard work and mutual respect until his passing in 1997.

As an active lifelong member of Kedron Baptist Church, her devoted faith was the cornerstone  of her life. She played the piano for numerous years and found great joy in volunteering for various church activities. Her passion for teaching Sunday School every week was unmatched, and it brought her immense happiness to spread the teachings of Jesus. Her dedication to her faith and her community was truly inspiring.

Loura had a green thumb and a love for gardening. Whether tending to her flowerbeds or cultivating crops, she found peace and fulfillment in the beauty of nature and being outdoors.  Her back patio was her sanctuary, where she enjoyed many afternoons with a cup of coffee and her cordless house phone chatting up a storm. Known for her quick wit and honest nature, her smile was a constant source of warmth and comfort. Her refreshing honesty and wisdom were qualities that endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a unique way of making everyone feel valued and loved, and her presence will be deeply missed.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 2:00PM at Hyde Cemetery, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her remarkable life.

The family would like to thank The Lodge at Tangi Pines for the care and love that they provided her in her final years. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.