Kenneth Ray Stephens

Kenneth Ray Stephens

1948 - 2019

Kenneth Ray Stephens, age 71, passed away on September 15, 2019. He was born in Warren, TX on July 16, 1948 to Clarence Ray Stephens and Bonnie Lee Ramer Stephens.

One of the toughest men, Kenneth possessed a fighting spirit that throughout life helped him to protect the ones he loved, stand for what he believed in, and gave him the strength that brought him through many of life’s trials. Living life his own way, once he headed in a direction, he did not have much of a reverse button. He fought at the drop of a hat and would even drop the hat if needed, though all his passion and toughness unwaveringly harmonized with a steadfast kindness that emanated freely from his heart. Hardworking, Kenneth never failed to pour himself into his work; one of the best mechanics, he was simply magnificent to watch, diagnosing vehicular problems from just listening to the engine. He never had a problem finding a job and was in high demand and well-loved by many local automotive shops, also retiring from the highway department. Often while away from work, Kenneth was tending his trout lines on Pine Island Bayou and Dam B and occasionally perch fishing. An expert squirrel hunter, dirt car racer, master trader and skillful dancer, Kenneth’s versatility and uncanny talents in life were unmatched, once even saving a dog’s life by giving it mouth to mouth. Growing up next to his wife and childhood sweetheart, Jean, Kenneth always felt strongly for her, and though they spent many years apart, life provided a way for them as they happily shared the last year of his life together. Kenneth loved fully, lived freely, and fought for his place in the world, though he is gone, his legend and many an unbelievable tale, or two, will forever live on in the hearts of those that met this fiery redhead.

Left to honor his memory is his loving wife, Jean Buxton Stephens of Lumberton, TX; son, Kenneth; daughter, Clara; step-daughter, Debbie Hooks of Austin, TX; step-sons, Randy Thompson and wife, Carrie, of Silsbee, TX and Brad Thompson and wife, Dora, of Vero Beach, FL; brother, James Stephens and wife, Sharon, of Silsbee, TX; sister, Shirley Stephens of Silsbee, TX; grandchildren, Gillian Harris, Lincoln Harris, and James Crawford; step-daughter-in-law, Tiffany Thompson; and a host of extended family, friends and loved ones.

Preceding Kenneth in death are his parents; wife, Marsha Ferrell Stephens; and stepson, Rocky Thompson.

Visitation with family and friends will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, September 19, 2019 at Lumberton Family Funeral Home, 766 S. Main St., Lumberton, TX 77657. 

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