Amanda H. Stein

Amanda Helen (Halbardier) Stein, devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother, passed away on May 22, 2011 surrounded by friends and family. She was born in Bergheim, Texas on December 13, 1911 to Albert and Ida Halbardier. She was the oldest of six children and the last to pass. She was preceded in death by her parents, five siblings, her husband Bennie Stein and her children, George Eldon and Susan Irene. Amanda's first job was with Southwestern Bell in her teens. She had been refused employment until she had a tonsillectomy, which she promptly did. She returned the next day and was hired as a switchboard operator, a job she dearly loved. She married Bennie and together they had five children. She was a devoted partner to Bennie sharing in the operation and management of The Woodlawn Caf, their family business, for many years. After Bennie's death, she was hired by Dillard's Department Store, again as a switchboard operator. She worked for Dillard's Executive Offices as a receptionist well into her 80's. She was a dynamic, strong, independent and selfless woman, who had a passion for gardening, cooking and sewing. She is survived by her children, Carolyn J. Arnold and husband, Mack; William R. (Bill) Stein and wife, Catherine; and Joan M. Ellis and friend, John Thompson. She was Granny to eight grandchildren: Michael A. Arnold (Joey Blackmon), Lynette R. Glowka (Mike), Georgia Arnold-Woehr (Steve Yount), Aaron A. Arnold (Diane) , William G. Stein (Jeanie), Tammy L. Dore (Greg), Edward C. Ellis (Leslie) and Andrew D. Ellis and 12 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her Chihuahua, Cheli, who greatly contributed to her longevity. Pallbearers include William G. Stein, Aaron A. Arnold, Edward C. Ellis, Andrew D. Ellis, Abel Hernandez and Dallas Glowka. A very special thanks to Anita Massey and Jessica Melendez, Amanda's devoted and loving caregivers. Thanks to Pastor David Ebs, Concordia Lutheran Church for ministering to her so faithfully. Thanks also to the staff at The Heights on Huebner and to Odyssey Hospice Care, especially nurse, Maria Maher. Visitation will take place from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM on Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at Concordia Lutheran Church, 16801 Huebner Rd. at 1604. The funeral service will follow at 7:00 PM at the church. Interment will take place at 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 26, 2011 at San Fernando Cemetery #2.