A family and community have been left devastated by the tragic loss of beloved local Lyn Stephenson OAM.
Locals are paying tribute to the community icon who passed away on Friday 27 June.
Ms Stephenson died after sustaining severe injuries during a fire at her home in Pakenham the day prior.
The scouting legend and dedicated volunteer is being remembered for her decades of service to the local community and for continuing the family’s legacy.
Her sisters Marcia Rook and Deb James said she will be missed by the family and the many people who knew her.
“We are devastated by the tragic loss, coming from a community-minded family, Lyn carried on a lot of those roots, she will be sorely missed by her family and all the groups she was involved with,” they said.
A dedicated member of local Scouts for over 55 years, she was a former District Cub Scout Leader and most recently held the position of District Historian.
In a statement, Cardinia District Scouts said her passion and dedication was vital in shaping local scouting.
“Our deepest condolences go to Lyn’s family, friends and the entire scouting community,” the statement said.
“Lyn, your dedication and love for scouting will always be remembered, and your impact will forever resonate in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know you.”
In 2015, she received the National President’s Award for her years of hard work. In 2021, she was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for her decades of dedication to the community.
Ms Stephenson was also a leader in many other volunteer groups, she was a Life Member of the Cardinia Civic Concert Band and served as president multiple times for the Probus Club of Pakenham.
The Cardinia Civic Concert Band said Ms Stephenson “rarely missed a rehearsal” and was a mentor to many.
“Though Lyn may no longer be with us in person, her melody will echo in our memories forever,” the band’s statement read.
“We are grateful for the time we shared and the love we received and our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time.”
She was also a longtime member of Pakenham Red Cross and Pakenham Uniting Church.
The longest-serving member of the church ever, Ms Stephenson was baptised there and was an avid member of the youth group.
She was always there for the weekly service, always seen getting tea ready for the congregation or singing in the church choir.
Secretary of the Church Council, Olive Elston OAM said Ms Stephenson was a “thoughtful woman who loved her church and the community.
“Check the weekly roster and Lyn’s name was there making morning tea, taking up collection or welcoming people into the church.”
Ms Stephenson previously credited her mother, Lorna Giles, who was also a dedicated community member and volunteer, for inspiring her decades of service.
