Emerald Isle- Lenora "Libby" Stephens Heverly, 87, passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, August 9,2025 at Crystal Bluffs in Morehead City. Born September 9, 1937 in Raeford, NC Libby was the cherished daughter of Frank and Blanch McKeithan Stephens.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 17,2025 at 11:00a.m. at Lighthouse Baptist Church, 2531 Burgaw Hwy., Jacksonville, NC, with Rev. Phillip Shepard officiating. In her joyful spirit, Libby made one special request for this day: no funeral clothes. She hoped those attending would wear bright, cheerful colors, a reflection of the happy place she now calls home in Heaven.

Libby was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose kindness and hospitality left a mark on everyone she met. Alongside her beloved husband, Ken, she owned and operated the Emerald Isle Fishing Pier, where she delighted in seeing families gather, laugh, and create memories by the sea. Her greatest joy, however was found in being surrounded by her family and dear friends and cheering on the Carolina Tarheels.

Libby deeply loved the town of Emerald Isle and dedicated herself to its growth and well-being, serving multiple terms on the Town Planning Board, as Town Commissioner, and as Mayor. She was instrumental in establishing the Parks and recreation Department and creating a full-time paid fire department, leaving a lasting legacy of service to her community.

She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Kenneth A. Heverly (Alisa) of Wilmington, David Heverly (Kathy) of Emerald Isle, Carl Heverly (Deirdre) of Cedar Point, and Roy H. Heverly (Lisa) of Emerald Isle; eleven grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren; her sister, Jean Long of Raeford; and sister-in-law, Dottie Stephens of Athens, AL.

Libby was welcomed into Heaven by the love of her life and husband of 53 years, Kenneth Leroy Heverly; her brothers, Ralph Stephens and Ronald Stephens; her grandson, Alan Heverly, and sister-in-law, Louis Stephens.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Lighthouse Baptist Church, 2531 Burgaw Hwy, Jacksonville, NC 28540 or to the charity of one's choice.