Delia Beth Stafford

Delia Beth Stephenson Stafford was born on February 21, 1937 in Beaumont, TX. She passed away peacefully on the morning of February 15, 2023. She is preceded in death by her parents, Quincy and Billie Stephenson. She is survived by her sister, Marilyn Singleton, and her brother, Steve Stephenson (Donna). She is survived by her children, Aleithea Capalbo, Amanda Stafford, Amber Maat, and Fletcher Stafford (Kim); and her grandchildren Dillon Youngblood (Genise), Stephanie Youngblood (Lexi), Ford Maat, Griffin Maat, Jordan Maat, Jude and Quentin Stafford; great-grandchildren, Ryder and Johanna Youngblood and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Delia received her high school diploma from Vidor High School in 1955. Throughout her high school years, she was a majorette, performed in the theater program, was homecoming queen and Miss Vidor High School. She went on to obtain a BA from Harding University in Searcy, AR, and a Master of Education from TSU. She moved her family to Houston in 1968 and began her extensive career in education in HISD. For over 25 years, Delia served her community first as a teacher, then as an administrator in HISD. She proudly initiated the first Alternative Certification Program for Teachers in the state of TX and was recognized at the White House by President George H.W. Bush for her accomplishments in education. After her impressive career in HISD, Delia partnered with Dr. Martin Haberman to charter The Haberman Educational Foundation. She worked passionately at THEF until her retirement.

Besides her achievements in education, Delia was a performer at heart and had a beautiful singing voice. She performed in and around the Houston area for many years and can also be heard singing backup vocals with Edgar and Johnny Winters on recordings of George Jones.

She was a member of the Southwest Central Church of Christ and enjoyed attending weekly services. She loved traveling for work, hosting holiday gatherings, twirling her baton and singing Amazing Grace. Most of all, Delia is remembered as a caring, loving mother and grandmother. She cherished her family more than anything else and was happiest when all the family would gather in her home.

Our family would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to Loving Care Cottages and Blue Bonnet Hospice for the excellent care of our beloved mother. A celebration of life will be planned for a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.earthmanbellaire.com for the Stafford family.