Alice Lloyd College is saddened to announce the passing of Irma Dawn Derderian Stepp, affectionately known as “Miss Irma.” Following a short illness, Irma went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 21st, 2021, at the age of 88.
Miss Irma came to Pippa Passes in 1999, after the death of her husband, Joseph Stepp. Here, she served as a volunteer at the Alice Lloyd College bookstore and immediately developed a close bond with the faculty, staff, and students on campus. Knowing they would find a warm smile, and a word of encouragement, students looked forward to visiting the bookstore each day just to get a hug from Miss Irma. She remembered each student’s name and after a hug, she added, “I love you, but God loves you more!” In all, she served the College for 23 years as a friend, mentor, and “grandmother” to thousands.
Throughout her life, Miss Irma had a strong faith in the Lord, and attended Caney Baptist Church for 23 years. Miss Irma generously supported nearly every organization on campus during fund-raising activities and did the same for church projects and community events. She had a passion for helping those in need and shared wherever she could. However, she always wanted her works to remain anonymous. Miss Irma would frequently remind all that she knew, when things seemed hopeless, to just remember, “God is in Control.”
The entire ALC family is heartbroken by the loss of one of its dearest members. The outpouring of love from the campus community, alumni, and friends of the College during her short illness was a testament to the influence her life had and continues to have in the Appalachian region. Miss Irma’s love and compassion will be long remembered and her spirit will continue to inspire kindness and caring for others. She was the epitome of God’s Love in our community.
Funeral arrangements will be conducted by Hindman Funeral Services with the Reverend Lawrence Baldridge officiating. Visitation will be on Tuesday, February 23rd, at the funeral home from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Services will be conducted at the same location on Wednesday, February 24th, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be at the Stepp Family Cemetery at Collins Creek in Warfield, Kentucky.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Joseph and Irma D. Derderian Stepp Memorial Scholarship fund at Alice Lloyd College. You can visit https://www.alc.edu/online-donations/ to make your donation. Select the Joseph and Irma Derderian Stepp Memorial Scholarship under gift destination. Checks can be written to Alice Lloyd College with the Joseph and Irma Derderian Stepp Memorial Scholarship in the memo.