Novella Jean Little, 89

Novella Jean Little, 89, formerly of Troy, Tennessee, transitioned from this earthly life to her home in heaven on July 29, 2021.

She was the 13th child born to Elder and Izora Stephens. She graduated from Woodland Mills High School in 1949 and married the love of her life Walter (“Dub” to many). They moved to Detroit where they became the proud parents of their only child Debbie. After Dub worked at Ford’s

for 32 years and Novella worked in finance and accounting, they returned to Tennessee to retire on Kentucky Lake. The home they built on the lake was an oasis of adventure for their three grandchildren, Seth, Tyler and Katelin, who would visit every summer and every chance they could. It was also the meeting place for many family reunions and visits for family and friends. Once the grandkids were grown, and the lake was empty, they moved back to Troy in 2000 where they both continued to stay active both in their church, Troy United Methodist, and the community.

Dub passed away in February 2016 after 67 years of marriage. Novella tried living by herself, keeping herself busy with all her activities, but soon realized she wanted to be near her daughter and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She made the big move to Montana the summer of 2017. While adjusting to Montana’s winters was a challenge, she adored being with her great-grandsons, Zane, Magnus and Ledger, and sharing life’s adventures with them. She was also so looking forward to

welcoming her great-granddaughter in October 2021.

Sweet, sweet memories. Her big loving smile and loud coos to the great-grandkids will be truly missed.

Novella was preceded in death by her husband, parents, all her sisters and brothers, her brother-in-law J.C. Little “Pip,” and many nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her daughter Debbie Biggar (Dave), grandson Seth Woodham, grandson Tyler Woodham (Megan) and granddaughter Katelin Ray (TJ), three great-grandsons Zane, Magnus and Ledger, sister-in-law Mamie Little, sister-in-law Glida Darling, brother-in-law Butch Little (Robbie) and sister-in-law Judy Patterson, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held for Novella, in her beloved Tennessee, this fall or next spring.