Avis Marie (Stephenson) Meikle

Avis Marie Meikle (née Stephenson) passed away at the age of 89 after a short illness, with her family by her side.

Avis was born on March 6, 1934 in Youngstown, the daughter of William "Russell" and Florence Stephenson. On May 16, 1953, Avis married her high school sweetheart Thomas "Tom" Meikle III. Avis and Tom were the love of each other's lives and enjoyed 63 years of marriage before he passed in 2016. Together, Avis and Tom raised their three children, Lori (Paul) Simione, Thomas IV (Linda), and Marjorie (David) Fleischer.

Avis adored her parents and spoke fondly of her childhood. She often told stories about collecting items for the war effort. This experience fostered her love of country and strong belief in the importance of voting. She served for years as a poll worker, and enjoyed nothing more than a lively discussion about politics.

A dedicated Cleveland Indians fan, Avis grew up going to games with her father.  One of her favorite memories was seeing Bob Feller pitch a no-hitter. Avis played basketball in high school at a time when it wasn't common for girls to participate in sports. She was voted "most athletic" by her class, a distinction of which she was very proud. Later in life, she enthusiastically followed the Cleveland Cavaliers and her favorite player, Lebron James.

After their kids were grown, Avis and Tom spent time traveling throughout the country on business trips. This was one of her favorite times in life. The two were inseparable and delighted in each other's company.

Avis loved to laugh; she had a quick wit and dry sense of humor. Throughout her life, she kept up with current fashion and had an exquisite sense of style. But it was her role as a wife and mother that she valued most in life. (God help you if you messed with any of her kids!) Her love of family is reflected in her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who cared for her more than anything.

Avis had a way of making everyone she encountered feel like they were special.  She never started a sentence with "I," instead focusing on others by showing genuine curiosity about their lives, joys and challenges. In social situations, she was mindful to make sure everyone felt included.  Avis was especially considerate to those going through difficult times. To the end, she was selfless.

Avis lives on in those who took example from what she practiced through her long life: valuing others and loving those who need it most.

If you'd like to honor her life, please consider making a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at stjude.org.