Donald "Donnie" W. Stephens

Donnie graduated in 1965 from Garinger High School in Charlotte, NC. He went on to serve in the United States Air Force. Donnie retired as an engineer with Charlotte Fire Department after 27 and a half years of service. He enjoyed serving his community but he adored his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He was affectionately known as "Paw" to his family and "Plug" to his firefighter friends. He was a generous giver with a quiet and humble spirit. He had an unexplainable strength and determination. Despite many health challenges and obstacles, Paw never once questioned his faith in Christ and spent his lifetime serving others.

Donnie was a problem solver, skilled handyman, loving provider, golfer and perfectionate painter. Everything began with his quiet home life with his wife. There were many trips to high school football and basketball games on Friday nights with his daughter. He was always ready and willing to help with a variety of projects with his son. His grandchildren were his life and he adored spending time with them and was interested in all their activities.

Donnie is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Kay Stephens; his children, Shelley Funderburk (Bruce) and Donald "Donny" Stephens (Leslie); his grandchildren, Lyndsey Funderburk, Alex Funderburk, Hannah Stephens, and Cara Stephens; his brothers, Mike Stephens (Carol) and Jimmy Stephens (Gina); and many other loving extended family members.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, November 3, 2023 at Hopewell Baptist Church (Legacy Campus), 420 Hopewell Church Road, Monroe, North Carolina. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Samaritan's Purse (see link below).