Mertice Bettina "Tina" Stokes

Mertice B. (Tina) Stokes, 57

Mertice Bettina Stokes of Jacksonville went home to be with the Lord on September 3 ^rd at St. Vincent Riverside Hospital surrounded by her family. She was born April 9, 1964, in Lake Wales to John C. and Mertice W. Fehringer. She was a devoted wife and homemaker and was a member of Evangel Assembly of God in Jacksonville. She also loved being a part of her childhood church, Impact, when visiting Lake Wales.

Tina realized her passion for children very early in life, especially children with disabilities. She was an avid advocate for them and spent many years volunteering with the Circle of Friends Ministry in Lake Wales. Her keen interest and enthusiasm for these children came from her little sister, Connie. As a school bus driver for the ESE Department of the Polk County School Board, she made riding the school bus fun and the children loved her dearly.

Her hobbies included reading, writing, gardening and she had become a late blooming artist. She loved her family and friends and most of all her Savior the Lord Jesus Christ!

Tina was preceded in death by her father, John C. Fehringer, and sister, Connie Darlene Fehringer.

She is survived by her mother, Mertice W. Kelly, (Bob) sister, Gail Denise Fehringer-Hicks of Seattle, WA. two nieces, Jennifer F. Hicks, and Maya F. Hicks and one nephew, Israel F. Hicks and many adoring extended family members and friends.

The family will receive visitors Friday, October 1 ^st at 1:00 p.m. at Impact Church in Lake Wales, and a Celebration of Life service will follow at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Circle of Friends Ministry.