Louise A. Stephens, 59, passed away peacefully July 28, 2007 after a long courageous battle with cancer. She was a beloved wife, mother, terrific friend and mentor to many. Louise was born April 19, 1948 in Cleveland, Ohio. She graduated from Arizona State University and went on to University of Arizona to receive her Masters in Library Science. Louise began her professional library career at the Velma Teague Library in Glendale, AZ where she started as a children's librarian and concluded as a Library Manager at Glendale's main library. Her career at the City of Glendale would span nearly 30 yrs. Louise was a "librarian's librarian" and very active in the Arizona Library Association (AZLA). She served as President of the Public Library Division in 1993-94 and President of AZLA in 1997-98. In 2001 she received the esteemed professional honor of being named AZLA Librarian of the Year. Louise was an icon and beacon of light who had a positive influence in the personal and professional lives of many. She inspired, encouraged and mentored many to enhance the love of reading and education. She was at her best when she was joking with friends and family. She enjoyed quiet walks in Thunderbird Park with her sister Holly, weekend shopping tours with daughter Megan and those "Franhobby" sisters shopping escapes to San Francisco and Palm Springs. She spent many a soothing weekends "up north" at her retreat in Munds Park. She was the ultimate warrior in her battle against cancer. Louise became a fierce advocate for womens health and particularly to inform women about ovarian and breast cancer. She had fought a twenty year battle against both diseases. She rarely complained about how she felt and shared information about herself in a matter of fact way with no self pity. Louise was and is dearly loved and missed by an extended family of friends and co-workers. They will treasure forever the memories of her humor and wit, her tenderness and compassion, her keen intellect and constant thirst for knowledge, and especially her courage and fortitude. She is survived by her husband Wade, precious daughter Megan, mother Marge Reese, father Alex Fanchaly, sisters Peggy Christy (Rick) and Holly Redburn (Jerry), brother Fred Fanchaly and many extended family members. The world is a little less bright and vibrant because Louise is no longer an active participant. To continue her memory and mentoring, contributions can be made to the Louise A. Stephens Memorial Scholarship fund C/O Arizona Library Association, 1030 E. Baseline Rd. Suite #105/1025, Tempe, AZ 85283. A Memorial Service is planned for 10 A.M. Saturday August 11, 2007 at the Community Church of Joy, 21000 N. 75th Ave. Glendale, AZ 85308. Arrangements entrusted to Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary.