of Guy, AR
August 8, 1930 - June 25, 2020
Edward Lee Stephens, aged 89, 0f Guy, Arkansas, passed from this life on Thursday, June 25, 2020. He was born on August 8, 1930, in Naylor, Arkansas, the son of Wesley A. and Ila Ogden Stephens. Ed was preceded in death, by his parents, three brothers, L. P., Tounz, and Cecil Stephens, a grandson, Zack Stephens, Lillian Jean Sanders Walker Stephens, (second wife) and Iris Jean Bowen Stephens, (first wife and mother of his children).
Ed influenced many students and teachers in Arkansas Public Schools throughout his career. He valued education and encouraged all students to complete their education to the best of their abilities. He was very proud to have been able to obtain his specialist's degree in education. Ed was a veteran and served in the United States Army during the Korean conflict. He enjoyed camping and fishing very much, throughout his life. He especially enjoyed staying in campsites that were constructed during the depression in the 1930's. Ed marveled at the wisdom that inspired leaders to provide much needed jobs for citizens provided income but are continuing legacy that can still be enjoyed today. Upon retirement, Ed returned to Guy where he enjoyed fellowship with many members of the community. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren and great- grandchildren participate in a variety of sports.
Ed is survived by his three sons: Ed L. Stephens, Jr. (Barbara) of Marietta, GA, David W. Stephens (Florene) of Guy, AR, and Larry J. Stephens (Krista) of Conway, AR, four grandchildren: David Stephens, Jr. (Amy), Wesley Stephens (Katie) , Lora Stephens, and Samantha Garretson (Kyle), and eight great grandchildren. He is also survived by one sister, Corinth Stephens Willbanks of Conway, sister-in-law, May Stephens, stepson, J. Michael Walker (Mimi) of Los Angeles, CA, stepdaughter, Sherri J. McCutcheon (John) of Fayetteville, AR, several step-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Ed was able to stay in his home where he would be more comfortable until his death. Some family members, Home Instead staff, and Arkansas Hospice helped to make this possible. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Sharon Glover for all the roles she has helped in over the last ten years.
A Graveside service will begin at 10:00AM Tuesday, June 30, 2020 at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander, AR.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Arkansas Children's Hospital.
My husband, Ed Bradberry, always had great memories of getting his specialist degree with Mr. Stephens. He was a very good administrator.
Ed, I just saw your father's obituary. I am truly sorry to here of his passing. Please accept my deepest condolences. Your Dad was always good to me and kept me in line. Sorry Ed.
All my prayers for the family of Ed Stephen's. He was a wonderful principal at Fuller High School. He will forever be remembered.
My sincere condolences. Mr. Stevens was a good friend. He will be missed.
Mr. Stephens was my principal at Fuller High School. He was always nice, professional & guided us well. If you listened & was there to learn & behave Mr. Stephens would help all he could but if not his saying was, “Shape up or Ship outâ€! He announced this each morning over the intercom. He was one of The Best! Prayers for all family & friends.
Mr. Ed and Miss Cookie were some of the best people I ever met. He cared about each of his students like we were his own. Never once was I in his presence that he didn't make me feel special, appreciated and loved. He did so much for the Guy-Perkins school district and our little community. My love, hugs and prayers are for you all during this difficult time. Mr. Ed - thank you for helping make me the man I am today. You are greatly loved, Sir!
I was a seventh grade student at Bauxite in Ed’s very first class that he taught. Ed took Ralph Richards and myself under his arms and always called us “His Boys†Ed was our Class Sponsor throughout our years at Bauxite. No mater where he was he always managed to attend all of our class reunions and always insisted that he set with “His Boysâ€
I was honored to be invited to be a guest speaker at his retirement celebration.
Rest In Peace my Friend
Mr. Stephens was my high school Principal at Fuller High School. I worked close with Mr. Stephens on activities and sports. I miss him and prayers for his family!
It has been many years and visits few and far apart but I have many fond memories of visiting Ed and my Aunt Cookie. Rest in peace Ed. Wayne Sanders, Spokane, WA.
Praying for all of you. Mark and Dora