Decatur ISD has named Stephanie Gage as its 2025 Coming Home Queen, an annual honor given to a Decatur High School graduate who has given back to the community in a meaningful way. The tradition of naming a "Coming Home Queen" dates back over 50 years. The selection of Mrs. Gage was announced at the Homecoming Football game on Sept. 26.
Born as Stephanie Wren on March 20, 1953, in Decatur, Texas, this year's awarded spent her formative years building fond memories in her hometown. Her childhood in Decatur was filled with simple joys: riding her bike, swimming at the city pool, and spending carefree time with friends at the baseball fields and, most importantly, with her loving family.
Her academic journey unfolded entirely within the Decatur school system, from the first grade through her graduation in 1971. A distinguished student, she graduated in the Top 10 of her class. She was a vibrant presence in school life, serving as a cheerleader, president of the choir, member of the National Honor Society, and treasurer for both the Spanish Club and Student Council District III. She earned the prestigious title of Miss D.H.S. in 1971, as voted by her classmates. Following high school, she continued her education at the University of Texas, successfully completing the demanding nursing program.
On August 6, 1977, she married a familiar face Ronnie Gage—a classmate she had known since the first grade—marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership.
A Career of Care and Dedication
She began her married life enjoying her nursing career in several North Texas cities, but soon discovered that her passion was school nursing, where she spent 20 years in school clinics and the last 32 years of her career as an administrator. In all, her dedication to the health and well-being of others spanned a remarkable 40 years as a nurse.
Family life was intrinsically linked to the spirit of Friday Night Lights. As part of a "coaching" family with three children, sports were central. You could always find her in the bleachers, a steadfast supporter first of her husband's career and then of her children's athletic pursuits. Similar to her nursing career, she also spent 40 years faithfully cheering from the sidelines on Friday nights.
In 2009, the family faced a profound tragedy with the loss of one of their children to a brain tumor at the age of 28. This tremendous loss cemented their bond even closer. Today, the family works as a dedicated team, channeling their grief into action by providing vital financial support to the Brain Tumor Society through their annual participation in the Fort Worth Brain Tumor Walk each year.
Coming Home and Embracing Family
Mrs. Gage is truly a Coming Home Queen as she now resides in Decatur with her friend from first grade. She remains close to her extended family, including aunts, uncles, and cousins on both sides, and is an active member of the First United Methodist Church.
Today, she spends most of her time focused on her six grandchildren, watching them participate in activities, playing with them at the lake, or just enjoying time at home. She continues to be an amazing friend to so many. Her husband, Ronnie, calls her his best friend, her kids call her the best Mom, and her grandchildren affectionately call her "Pokey"!