Dwight L. Stephens

It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of Dwight Leonard Stephens, 87, originally from Pittsburgh, PA, on New Year's Day, 2025. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family at his home in North Myrtle Beach. He was born on December 5, 1937, to Roscoe and Evelyn (Zwick) Stephens in Allison Park, PA. He was enlisted in the Army in 1960 and served as an MP. On July 29, 1972, he married Barbara (Herman) in Heinz Chapel at the University of Pittsburgh where he majored in chemistry.

In 1962 he began a 50+ year career in the chemical packaging & coatings industry, first with Stoner-Mudge then Mobil Corp & Valspar Corp. He was then recruited to start and head up a new German company, Watson Rhenania, where he built the plant and business from the ground up before he retired in 2012 as vice president. He was restless in his retirement and became a consultant for Jamestown Technologies, finally retiring in 2020. Dwight was a lifelong Steelers fan and a season ticket holder. He was an avid golfer and member of Highland Country Club in Pittsburg as well as a fisherman and devoted "cat dad" to Rosie and Rockie.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Stephens; son, Dwight R. Stephens (Amy) of New Kensington, PA, daughters, Laurie Fedenko (Steve Tsataros) of Palm Harbor, FL, Melissa Smelser (Karl) of Shaler Township, PA; brother, William Stephens (Carolann) of McCandless Township, PA; sisters, Judith Davenport (Thomas) of Edinboro, PA; Linda Watson (Charles) of Marshall Township, PA; Four grandchildren; and two great grandsons; along with several nieces and nephews.

A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 21, 2025 at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 1100 8th Ave N. North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582, with inurnment in the church columbarium. A celebration of life will follow at Dwight's home, 920 Heshbon Drive, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582.

Lee Funeral Home and Crematory of Little River is serving the family.