of Little Rock, AR
October 25, 2015
Ebby Jane Steppach was born March 31, 1997 at 6:30 a.m. She died October 25, 2015, the day her car was abandoned at Chalamont Park in West Little Rock. She was survived by her parents, Laurie and Michael Jernigan; her father, Peter Steppach; her sister, Harris Elizabeth; brother, Trevor; stepbrother, Ethan; her grandparents, Bill and Peggy Holman, and Debi and Richard Steppach; uncle, Tim Steppach, and many more loving members of the family.
The family refers to her as ''Ebster'' and ''Ebjane'' but most knew her as ''Ebby Jane''. She was to be a 2016 Central High School graduate and her dream was to be a cosmetologist and real estate agent. She was studying two languages, Spanish and Turkish, and was learning Hebrew with her ''Grandma Debi''.
She loved children, the color purple, good music and hot pockets. She was fancy and loved the sparkles of dressing up with lipstick and the newest hair styles. Ebby was beautiful in a dress or in a ball cap and her laugh was contagious. She loved the Lord and cared so much for others especially if she felt they had been wronged. She was loyal, battled for the underdog and would lay down her life for those she truly cared about. Her heart was so big and with it, she loved fiercely.
She never left a room unless she knew you were smiling. If there was a disagreement, she always asked for forgiveness to make things right. She could never keep a secret if someone told her something that might hurt them and would break a friendship code to ensure their safety. Her family was so important to her. She adored all her grandparents and loved spending time with them. She was from a family of talented artists and loved photography most. She was a true artist.
Her favorite place was the beach. She loved the sand, the ocean, the wind and collecting seashells. She was 10 years old during a vacation when a tropical depression was going to last for seven days. Ebby wanted to go out to play and her mom said ''We're praying the storm away.'' She walked right out into the storm and ''prayed it away'' and the rest of us watched the sun come out and the rest of the week was full of sunshine.
Ebby and her mother, Laurie, had a very close mother ~ daughter relationship, ''I knew when she took a breath, her first breath, that we would be close and that she would be a very special young lady. Sometimes a mother just knows what their child can't say and we were like that. The beach was one of our favorite places and I will always feel as if she's still there with me.
The family of Ebby Jane is not sure why this has happened but God does and has used her life for the greater good. Ebby's disappearance has resulted in a higher awareness of missing children in Arkansas, the existence of human trafficking in our country and the need for more efficient police protocols to retrieve children sooner when they are reported missing.
Thank you all so much for loving her. The family has asked you to pray with them to thank God for her life, that through her tragedy, many more young women will be saved.
Many thanks to Little Rock Cold Case Detective, Tommy Hudson, and the Cold Case Unit, Captain Russell King, Chief Wayne Bewley, along with Boyd Boshears and his FBI colleagues. Without these outstanding men of integrity taking over her case, Ebby would never have been found. In addition, the family thanks H.A.L.O. Investigations and local private investigators, Monty Vickers and Tom James.
A Celebration of Ebby's Life will be held at Christ Community Church, at Warrior Hall on the campus of Little Rock Christian Academy Campus, Saturday, May 26th at 2 p.m. and officiated by Pastor Tim Lundy and Music Pastor, Ron Marrow.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to nonprofit organizations, H.A.L.O.S. Investigations and T.H.O.R.N.
Sign Guestbook
62 Condolence(s)
Jenne Lynne Newill
Thursday, May 19, 2022
I saw Ebby's story on an episode of Dr. Phil today. I was so touched and so hope you one day will find the answers you are seeking and those accountable for harming Ebby will be brought to justice. I, too, tragically lost my son so I know the path you are walking is not easy. Please accept my deepest condolences. May all of your good memories continue to carry you through the difficult times ahead. Peace be with you.
June Garrett
Friday, February 18, 2022
So touched by all your family has endured. Rest in eternal peace Ebby and Trevor. We know God will bring justice. I pray your family will see justice in this life. God bless you and keep you. ðŸ™ðŸ™
Dawn
Thursday, February 17, 2022
Just watched Dr. Phil's episode about your daughter. Looked her up to see what happened. I am SO sorry. I, too, have a beautiful young daughter. I can't even imagine what you're going through. I am crying for you and your husband. I hope you have found some peace.
Dawn
Dusti
Sunday, October 31, 2021
I never met Ebby,but the way everyone speaks of her, especially her strong, wonderful mother, I can tell she was a wonderful,bright, thoughtful, intelligent,and giving young lady. The family has been through so much,and my sincere hope is that they get justice for Ebby,and can find some hope and peace in their lives, because God in heaven knows how much they deserve it.
Vicki scales downing
Thursday, May 23, 2019
Laurie, So Sorry you are having to endure this nightmare all over again, Praying for you and your family Peace and courage to be able to help other families in similar situations
G Nelson
Wednesday, June 13, 2018
I’m so sorry for you and your family’s loss. She seemed to be a beautiful soul with a kind and loving heart. I pray you all find peace during this difficult time.
Kathryn Searcy
Sunday, June 3, 2018
Dear Debbie and Richard and all of the Steppach family,
You are our beloved, and Ebby is our beloved too. I am thankful for her life and all that you have shared about her. Her life continues to make a difference, and Jesus smiles upon her. She is with her one true Love and will be with Him forever as she awaits you. She is proud of y’all and all that you have done for her. She loves you greatly.
May sweet memories flood your minds and hearts as you mourn our loss on earth. I love you and am praying each day for His mercies and Presence to bring you comfort.
Juan
Saturday, June 2, 2018
(Psalm 46:1) "God is our refuge and strength, A help that is readily found in times of distress."
(Revelation 21:4) "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”
Patti Cingolani Benight
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Laurie & family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you and your family! As a mother, I cannot imagine how you endured the pain, suffering, and heartbreak of these last months. So many long suffering nights you must have gone through. So many days and nights of panic and endless fear you all must have had to endure. On the day the news broke it seemed to spread like wildfire through the NLR Northeast / Lakewood community. So many of us were crying for you and sweet Ebby Jane. The Lord has her safely now. Heaven awaits that gorgeous "Holman" smile. May peace soon come to your family and you. And, may God walk with you in this next phase of your lives.
Respectfully,
Patti Cingolani Benight , Blake Bowers, and Jon Tyler Benight
North Little Rock, Arkansas
Patricia DeLeon
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
So sorry for the loss of Ebby. She was a beautiful person, and now a beautiful soul. I'm getting married next month and sad to think she never was able to because someone took this from her. I pray the killer is found and punished to full extent of the law. Please God let the killer be locked away for Ebby. Amen
Jill Claxton
Sunday, May 27, 2018
Beautiful Ebby your family has been incredibly brave and I pray the Lord will comfort them as they have already been missing you for so long. We will never forget you.
Betty Holman
Saturday, May 26, 2018
You have been and will continue to be in my prayers.
I am so sad it ended this way.
Betty
Elizabeth Calias
Saturday, May 26, 2018
We all prayed right beside you for Ebbys safe return, how brokenhearted we were to read the news. I never had the honor of meeting Ebby, but there are some people who's amazing personalities & sweet nature shine through in a simple smile, & Ebby was definitely one of those people. Laurie you have been so courageous, an absolute piller of strength from day 1, your strength & love for your daughter is incredible. We have followed the case from the beginning & will continue to pray for your family & for #Justice4Ebby
Susan
Saturday, May 26, 2018
I didnt know her but followed her case and always caught myself looking up at the billboards with her pretty face pictured. I am so sorry someone done this to her and to your family. It truly is beyond heart breaking. May God comfort you in your questions and heartaches. RIL pretty girl; angel unaware.
Nina Moore halos
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Prayers for ebbys family and friends
Rip beautiful angel
Pat Larson
Saturday, May 26, 2018
My heartfelt sympathy to your family.💜
Audrey Burtrum-Stanley
Saturday, May 26, 2018
As I send this message now the funeral of this young
girl'sis drawing neigh... The 'Answered & Un-Answered
Question' will linger in the hearts and minds of
thousands of unknown neighbors who care - who have
cared deeply for several years. I too, have prayed
for this family. Now, at the close of this day, may
a bevy of Angels blanket this daughter's grave and a
balm of solace grace all. GOD surely is cradle'n her
in his loving arms -- we just didn't know it for sure
till now...
Paulette & Bob Weible with Search Dogs South & Halos Investigations, Inc.
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Our thoughts and Prayers to the Family and Friends of Ebby Steppach for their loss.
Ebby's story touched a lot of lives of people she never met from around the World and her Mom's endless search for daughter and enlisting help from Organization such as Halos Investigations, Inc. changed (hopefully, forever) the way Law Enforcement looks at Missing Persons and Sex Trafficking Cases.
We never got to meet Ebby personally (that's our loss), but working with Tina Storz, Mike Pitonyak and the members of Halos Investigation that were assigned to her case feel we knew her well and hoped and prayed for a different outcome.
Rest in Peace beautiful Ebby
Jill
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Your in my thoughts and prayers
Brian kley, Halos Investigations
Saturday, May 26, 2018
God bless
Jesse and Juanita Taylor
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Prayer's for family.
Michael Pitonyak
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Laurie and I are so sorry for your loss.
You and Michael and family are in our thoughts.
Darlene
Saturday, May 26, 2018
I am so deeply sorry for your loss.
Ann Nottingham
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Ebby was my own daughter's age and quite likely attended Central together. I pray for her family for today and the weeks ahead. My deepest condolences for your loss.
Sheva
Saturday, May 26, 2018
My Condolences to Steppach Family
Sheila Williams
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Praying 4 comfort & peace. Jesus is always there. She couldn’t b n better hands. It will get better by the grace of God.
Barbara King
Saturday, May 26, 2018
I never met Ebby but followed her story. Thank you Ebby, her family and Dr Phil for bring national attention to missing children. I pray you are now safe from this evil world and prayers to your family.
Tonesha Gray
Saturday, May 26, 2018
This story as another has truly touched my heart. Prayers to an amazing family on today and for the difficult days ahead.
Adrienne Collins
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Praying for your family’s strength. I
Remember when I Heard about your story. I did All that i could to find you. But unfortunately i was too late. I pray that God gives your soul peace. Rest in love.
Bridgette
Saturday, May 26, 2018
NOW MY YOUR SOUL REST IN PEACE FLY HIGH SWEET ANGEL!!❤
Nancy Crouch
Friday, May 25, 2018
I'm so sorry for your loss. I pray God wraps his arms around your family.
Harry feustel
Friday, May 25, 2018
May Ebby Jane Steppach be with the angels and be at peace now
Rosetta J Feustel
Friday, May 25, 2018
My heart goes out to you and your family . I cried the day she went missing and cried the day she was found. She was and still is a beautiful young lady. Many blessings and prayers for you all. God does answer prayers. He has a angle . She's wathwatc over you all.
Laura Womack Holthoff
Friday, May 25, 2018
Remembering that night I first heard Ebby’s story on the news is still so vivid in my mind. As I heard the first few sentences being read, I stopped in my tracks to listen. My first thoughts were for your daughter and your Family. I immediately closed my eyes, thinking I cannot even imagine how you must be feeling at that moment. I’ve continued to follow Ebby’s story and pray for strength for Ebby and your family. To say I’m so sorry for this huge loss of Ebby’s presence seems impossible. I know she will always be around you in many other ways. Just as you wrote about her love of the Beach. Like You can feel the wind but you can’t see it. Please know my thoughts and prayers will continue for all of you. Much love from Southeast Arkansas.
Deborah Rudolph
Friday, May 25, 2018
Dear Laurie and family, my love and prayers are with you today as they have been throughout the journey searching for your precious Ebbie. I join you in giving thanks for the gift of a daughter, each sweet moment with her, answers to prayers, and hope for a perfect eternal reunion. Thank you for being a godly example of faithful, loving parents and for seeking the greater good in the midst of loss. I pray the love from all those whose lives you have touched manifests God's perfect love and give strength and comfort today and always.
Voletta Chavis
Friday, May 25, 2018
I, too, have followed the long journey to find Ebby, praying for her and for her family. Our loss is Heaven's gain; Ebby is at peace now and I pray for comfort for her family.
Jana Robertson
Friday, May 25, 2018
I did not know the Jernigan or Steppach families personally but I have felt a connection to them as I have followed Ebbys story since day one. I have Prayed countless times that she would come back home. Now I will Pray countless times that the pain and sorrow her family is feeling will soon pass and their sweet memories with her will live on forever! My thoughts and prayers are with you all!!!
Diana Billings
Friday, May 25, 2018
I remember the evening news announcing that a Central High student was missing. Even though I didn't know the family, I started praying for a safe return of this young lady. When someone this young dies, we have to know that God needs them more than we do. We are sent to Earth for a mission, and her's was completed. I think what of may have happened that day Ebby disappeared, and wonder WHY!!!! Her disappearance has raised awareness, and perhaps law enforcement will make it a law to check more thoroughly when someone calls to say they smell decomposing flesh. They should call it EBBY'S LAW!!!
Terri
Friday, May 25, 2018
When i first heard about Ebbys missing case i knew as a mom I wanted to get involved cause my children are my world as well&even my kids wanted to help so we joined in efforts to get her story out&the day we went to the prayer vigil I could see the love&how Ebby brought so many peoole together even thou i didnt know her personaly meeting her Aunt&listening to a story of her being a beaming heart&her loving others i felt close to her&realised this young lady was so missed&my heart hurt for the Jernigan family as a mom but also that ebby made a profound footprint in everyones life she touched personally or thru this heartbreaking journey.
patsy moore
Friday, May 25, 2018
My prayers ..
Brandy Scruggs
Friday, May 25, 2018
My prayers are with you all. I feel as if Ebby became family to all of Arkansas and beyond. I pray for peace and comfort in the hearts of her family. I'm grateful she can finally be laid to rest. Much love to all.
Lais Loria
Friday, May 25, 2018
As many here, I've never met the Steppach family and I am just someone who has been following the case online. However, somehow it feels like we all became one huge family when we were talking about Ebby. It was amazing to see her family working so hard to find her, as well as Ebby's mother strength, courage and faith to go trough this nightmare. Ebby touched so many hearts and brought people together. I am sure she was a very special soul who is now resting in peace with the Lord. I hope her family find the peace they need so very much. Ebby will always be remembered and loved! Prayers all the way from Canada.
Celeste Hogan
Friday, May 25, 2018
My most sincere condolences to you, Laurie, and to your family. You have been such an inspiration to many for this long, unimaginable journey, and I know Ebby is so proud of you. Your love for Ebby lights up the world! I pray for your strength, peace and comfort now and in the days ahead and throughout your life as you find a way to go on. I'm sure you will continue to make a huge impact in such a dark world. You are classy, beautiful inside and out, and I am proud to be your friend. You have my support for the rest of your life and with anything you ever need I'm a phone call away. I love you, and I'm so sorry for your enormous burden of grief. Your daughter has an amazing mom and she's looking down on you and all around you with so much love and feels yours....of that you can be sure. ❤❤❤
Dawn Richey
Friday, May 25, 2018
My condolences to the family of this beautiful young lady. , She has touched so many lives. She has brought so many situations to the forefront. Though I never had the opportunity to meet Ebby, I feel as though I did know her. Shine bright. You will be missed here.
Connie DeNoon
Thursday, May 24, 2018
The obituary could not have been more beautiful. I never had the pleasure of meeting Ebby or her Mom, but I worked with her Dad Michael for about 10 years. I can remember him always talking about "His Girls". I always admired Michael for his dedication and love he gave to his step kids. He never called them that, ever. I have never met anyone that took on the role of being a step parent like you do. My heart aches for your family. I am sorry you and your precious ones are having to live this nightmare. Keeping your family in my prayers always. Your wife is an amazing lady, I see why she is such a treasure to you.
Bryan & Twila Maloney
Thursday, May 24, 2018
We have followed Ebbys search from early in its infancy. Our prayers were that she would be found. Today those prayers are answered. We wanted a different outcome, but that would not be. Now her legacy lives on through all those whose lives she impacted whether you knew her or not. May God reveal His true comfort and peace during your time of grief and profound loss. Take comfort in knowing that your little girl touched lives not only in Arjansas, but nationwide.
Gina Kokes
Thursday, May 24, 2018
Chuck and I are so sorry for how this journey has ended for your family--our sincerest condolences. This beautiful young woman's life was too short but your love for her and your perseverance to find her have created changes and awareness in the community that will ripple forward and affect many other lives. Ebby's life is, and will always be, a blessing.
Jayne Bradley
Thursday, May 24, 2018
We have been looking for you...
I only know you through press coverage but you are now safe in the arms of Jesus.
To the family mourning - May god give you consolation ❤️
Sharra Lyles
Thursday, May 24, 2018
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this hard time. Ebby will always be in the hearts of everyone who met her and the many people like me that have followed this from day one. R.I.L sweet girl!!! Fly high with the angels!!!
Michelle &Starla Swaller
Thursday, May 24, 2018
Pray that you find comfort, peace and strength during this sad time.
Chris & Rhonda (Mead) Lewis
Thursday, May 24, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all!
John and Tasha Rodgers
Thursday, May 24, 2018
As we stand broken hearted in this moment, it is another moment that captures my heart. The moment Ebby opened her eyes in Eternity and beheld the FACE of Jesus. What that moment must have been like! While these endless days have been filled with longing and pain for those left behind, Ebby has been safe in the arms of Jesus!! We pray those same arms hold you all now and that "the Peace which passes all understanding" be more real to you than EVER before. We've all watched in amazement as you've walked this journey with Grace and fierce love. Now let the Grace and Fierce Love of the One Who holds your tomorrows carry you through these next steps. You've changed the world!! And you've shared your sweet Ebby with us so beautifully!! We have all come to love you and we're all lifting you up before the Throne!!
Christina Bates
Thursday, May 24, 2018
I have followed this from the beginning and my heart breaks for the family. She was a gorgeous girl and I truly hope your family can have the answers they deserve. I'm glad you finally have closure and can some peace knowing where she is..... my heart just breaks for you all and my thoughts are with you all.
Alyssa Hippely (Frisby)
Thursday, May 24, 2018
What I am feeling right now is hard to put into words. But, My heart and my condolences goes out to the Steppach Family. I know that these are rough times and I will continue to pray that the Lord our God continues to wrap his arms around the family and all of the loved one and keeps giving them strength. I remember the first time that I ever met Ebby. It was at Church one Wednesday night when Danielle had brought her and I was upset about something and Danielle wanted to cheer me up and Ebby barely knew me and still attempted to help out. After that I heard story after story after story about Ebby and I couldn’t help but to notice how much of a beautiful soul that she was. I’m very sorry your loss and I hope these tunes gets easier. I love you guys and may God be with you through all of it.
Sandye M Roberts Halos Investigations Inc.
Thursday, May 24, 2018
Our hearts are broken. This family became our family over two years ago. Ebby will never be forgotten Through Halos. Laurie you and your family have forever captured our hearts. My heart will be there with you on Saturday. Know that you are loved and Ebby is forever in our hearts.
Sincerely,
Sandye
Tiffany
Thursday, May 24, 2018
I didn’t know you but I always knew you kept a smile on your face and everyone else’s we will always love and miss you but never forgotten we love you Ebby Jane!!!❤️
Marty Knoll
Thursday, May 24, 2018
How I wish I had the power to change this story, but I don’t . I also know that God knew this day was coming and although we may never understand the why or the how....I know that keeping our eyes in Jesus and having faith that he loves each one of us and he is the only one that can bring us through difficult times and will wrap us in his love and comfort our hearts.
Laurie, I love you and so sorry for your loss.
Marty Knoll
Alisha Sherman
Thursday, May 24, 2018
Dear Ebby Jane, though I did not know you or your family, you have touched my life and so many others. You are a blessing, a blessing so good that God needed you back. You are the most beautiful angel now. And will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with your family through this heartbreaking and difficult time. May you rest in peace sweet Ebby Jane.
Beth Gardner
Thursday, May 24, 2018
My daughter Kate was a friend of Ebby’s in junior high school. I remember many sleepovers complete with late night giggles coming from behind closed doors, the kind a parent cherishes. As a parent, I cannot begin to fathom the pain you must be experiencing but I am thankful that there is some degree of closure. Ebby was so special. All my love and prayers are with you and her friends in this heartbreaking time.
Lisa House Guffey
Thursday, May 24, 2018
I can’t express how much my heart hearts for all of your family. I am so thankful to know she is in the arms of Jesus. Continued prayers for comfort, peace and love in the coming days and years. I love you old friend! RIP sweet ebby Jane
Jerry and Janis Robbins
Thursday, May 24, 2018
So sad, so sorry for your loss, we are praying for all of you to receive comfort and strength during this time. May God be close at all times for you; we pray you receive support from your families, neighborhood, church, all your friends. Thank you for sharing sweet words and memories about your daughter.
Tracy Noble
Thursday, May 24, 2018
My heart goes out to each member of your family in the loss of your dear Ebby Jane. I commit to continue to pray for God's peace to surround you, His comfort to sustain you, and His justice to prevail in His sovereign timing. You are so loved by so many ... The prayers covering you will never cease. I join you in celebrating Ebby's precious life and trusting God's goodness even in the midst of heartache.