Stephanie Maddox Cary, 46, of Guntersville, Alabama, passed away on October 2, 2026, surrounded by those who loved her.
Stephanie was born on May 24, 1980, in Birmingham, Alabama, and graduated from Shades Valley High School. She lived with a spirit that was entirely her own. She was fun and spunky, funny, fiercely competitive, athletic, creative, and never too concerned with what anyone else thought. She loved to sing, tried her best to dance, and brought a sense of fun wherever she went.
More than anything, Stephanie loved people well.
She was a devoted wife, an incredibly involved mother, and a mother figure to many more than just her own children. Stephanie and Wes’s home was always an open door and a safe place for friends, family, and children who needed somewhere to belong. There was always room for one more. Stephanie had a servant’s heart and a special gift for recognizing people who were hurting and showing them the love of Jesus—not simply through words, but through the way she welcomed, fed, encouraged, supported, and cared for them.
Stephanie loved being with her family. She was an amazing cook, crafty and creative, loved animals and the beach, and treasured time at the lake. Music brought her joy, and The Chicks were her favorite band. And while she was always ready for a lake day, she was equally certain to bring along a float because of her well-known fear of snakes.
Stephanie was the kind of mom who didn’t simply watch from the sidelines—she jumped in. Whether it was a playing games around the table, kickball with the kids, or welcoming another friend into their home, Stephanie was present. She supported her children wholeheartedly and helped create a home where they and their friends knew they were welcome, loved, and cared for.
Stephanie leaves behind her beloved husband, James Wesley “Wes” Cary, and the children she loved beyond measure: Kye Capolupo (Allie), McKinley Cary, and James Wesley “JW” Cary, Jr. She is also survived by her parents, Darlene Poe and James Glass; her sister, Sherry Harris; her brother, Stephen Maddox; numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly; along with extended family, friends, and many others she loved as her own.
Stephanie was preceded in death by her aunt, Diane Maddox; her grandmother, Kathleen Poe, both with whom she shared a special bond; and her beloved dog, Ella B, who held a very special place in her heart.
Stephanie’s life cannot be measured simply by the 46 years she was given. It can be seen in the children who found a second home with Stephanie and Wes, the people she fed and cared for, the family she fiercely loved, the laughter she created, and the countless lives made better because she was part of them.
Her family will remember the love she so freely gave to others, the joy and laughter she brought into their lives, and the way she made people feel welcomed and loved. Stephanie’s light will continue to shine through her children, her family, and the many lives she touched.
Stephanie was a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a friend, and a safe place to so many. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
