DUNCANVILLE, TX – The City of Duncanville is proud to announce Cozea and Celee Stephens as its official 2025 Mr. and Ms. Juneteenth honorees. This recognition is part of the annual Best Southwest Juneteenth Celebration, a collaborative event between the cities of Duncanville, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, and Lancaster. This year’s celebration will be hosted by the City of DeSoto and will highlight the rich cultural heritage and significance of Juneteenth, which was established as a federal holiday in 2021.
Each year, the Best Southwest cities honor outstanding residents who embody the spirit of Juneteenth through leadership, service, and commitment to community. Cozea and Celee Stephens exemplify these values through their professional work, ministry, and dedication to improving lives.
Cozea Stephens is a respected community leader and advocate for inclusion. As Manager of the Bachman Recreation Center in Dallas, he leads with purpose, compassion, and a deep commitment to ensuring every individual—especially those with special needs—feels seen, valued, and empowered. In Duncanville, Cozea serves on the City’s Park Board and is a Deacon at Harvest Bible Fellowship Church, where he actively uplifts others through service and ministry.
Celee Stephens is an accomplished educator and passionate mentor. With two decades of experience in education, she has served in various roles including principal at a campus in the Duncanville Independent School District. Currently, she serves as the district’s Career and Technical Education Innovation Specialist, helping shape programs that prepare students for success beyond high school. In addition to her professional work, Celee is the praise and worship leader at Harvest Bible Fellowship and director of the youth choir, using her talents to guide and inspire the next generation.
Together, Cozea and Celee have been married for 22 years and are the proud parents of two exceptional children—Hannah, a student at Texas A&M–San Antonio, and Roman, a recent Duncanville High School graduate and Dallas College associate degree recipient. Whether enjoying family time, walking together, or worshiping side by side, their marriage is grounded in faith, love, and shared dedication to the community.
The City of Duncanville congratulates Cozea and Celee Stephens on this well-deserved honor and thanks them for their inspiring service, leadership, and enduring contributions to the spirit of Juneteenth.
The Best Southwest Juneteenth Celebration invites everyone to come together on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Grimes Park in DeSoto, Texas (501 E. Wintergreen Rd.). Enjoy a fun-filled evening of live music by Zapp, NTense the Band, and Chadney Christle, along with local vendors, food, and family-friendly activities. Free entry and free parking. Gates open at 5:00 PM and the event runs from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Bring your family, friends, and community spirit for a night of celebration, culture, and unity.
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