Ken D Stephens

Ken was born on August 24, 1947 to James Clifford and Edith Mae Stephens in Sherman, TX. Ken was a proud Van Alstyne High School graduate where he shined as a promising football player. In 1969, Ken joined the United States Navy as a Machinist, serving aboard the USS Vesuvius AE-15 during the Vietnam War. His dedication to service earned Ken various medals, along with honorable recognition for regaining power to the propellers of an ammunition ship; thus, saving many sailors’ and civilians’ lives. During Ken’s military service, he was married to Cheryl Hutchison Stephens, who tragically passed away from a heart condition in her early 30s.

After Ken’s honorable discharge from the United States Navy, he earned graduate and bachelor’s degrees from the University of Texas at Arlington and Dallas Baptist University, where he proudly taught as an adjunct professor in the College of Business. While educating business students, Ken maintained a long-term and successful career in sales. Ken was frequently awarded “Top Performer” amongst his colleagues, which he attributed to his keen ability to hold conversations with anyone and everyone.

On October 25, 1996, Ken married the love of his life, Brenda Rucker Stephens. Throughout their decades-long marriage, Ken and Brenda traveled much due to his profession. His career moved them to California, Pennsylvania, and Singapore, while their primary home resided in Trophy Club, TX. The inseparable pair visited many countries, walked countless beaches, and shared many laughs, triumphs, and limitless love. Before Brenda’s passing in 2022, Ken stayed by her side until she drew her final breath.

Ken was a dedicated believer of Christ, husband, father, and professional, who enjoyed playing golf, singing in various church choirs, and attending plays at Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth. However, Ken’s proudest role was being “Papa” to his grandchildren. He never turned down an opportunity to play Candy Land, made the best ice cream floats, attended all sporting events, and never lost his childlike spirit - encouraging imaginative play that would take him and his grandchildren anywhere in the world.

Ken is preceded in death by his wife Brenda Stephens, former wife Cheryl Stephens, and son Michael Stephens.

He is survived by daughters, Amy Coles, Kristy Bishop, and Mandy Stafford; grandchildren Brittany, Chase, Jackson, Savannah, Avery, Elijah, Ashton, Mia, and Ryan; great-grandchildren Hayden and Benjamin; sister, Kay; brothers, Keith and John; members of Cheryl and Brenda’s families, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family requests donations be made to Hospice of Wichita Falls or Wounded Warrior Project in lieu of flowers. A celebration of life will be held at Hampton Vaughan Crestview Funeral Home in Wichita Falls on Saturday, October 21st, at 10:00 AM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hamptonvaughancrestview.com for the Stephens family.