STEDMAN FERN C. Fern Stedman (Fern Marie Christofel) died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on February 22, 2016, in Dacula, Georgia at the age of 89. She was preceded in death by her parents, Pete and Bertha Christofel; her sister, Naomi Brower; and her brothers, George and Boyd. Fern is survived by her beloved husband of 56 years, Jerry Stedman; her two daughters, Matha (Derin) Malcovsky of Columbus, Ohio and Jae Marie Fry of Dacula, Georgia; and her son, Jerry Jay Stedman, of Dacula, Georgia. Survivors include her grandsons, Hunter Fry, Drew (Angela) Malcovsky, Dillon Malcovsky; granddaughter, Marissa Malcovsky; and great- granddaughter, Annika Malcovsky; along with nieces, cousins and countless friends. Fern was born in Jefferson Hills, Pennsylvania. She joined Jefferson Hills United Methodist Church, graduated from Clairton High School and then West Virginia Wesleyan University with academic honors in Physical Education and Health. Fern earned a master's degree from the University of Colorado where she met Jerry. She taught physical education and was an athletic coach in Berea, Ohio and at West Virginia Wesleyan. She married Jerry on August 1, 1959, and resided in Columbus, Ohio until 1983 when they moved to Lilburn, Georgia. Her children remember her for being a kind and loving mother who encouraged them to pursue their goals, while developing a heart for others. Fern's full obituary may be viewed at: http://wagesandsons.com/obit/fern-marie-stedman. A memorial service and reception will be held to celebrate Fern's life at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 28, 2016, in the chapel at WAGES & SONS FUNERAL HOME, 1031 Lawrenceville Hwy., (770) 277-4550 in Lawrenceville, Georgia. The family would like to thank Senior Helpers, Agape Hospice, and Marieta's Mission. Condolences may be sent to jjstedman@hotmail.com. The family asks that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org), P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011, in honor of Fern. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb