Donald Bruce Stephens

Donald Bruce Stephens was born February 8, 1932 in Columbia, Missouri. He passed away on March 18, 2024. His visitation will be March 23rd from 10:00 am -11:00 am at the fountain at Central United Methodist Church and The Celebration of Life will begin at 11:00 am with Rev. Wayne Hicks officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Cemetery.

Don attended The University of Missouri where he received a bachelor’s degree in Business. He was a life-long Missouri Tigers fan and was especially proud of his Mizzou Tigers this year. He then joined the Air Force and was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska during the Korean War. His fondest memory was flying in close proximity to Russia. This fueled his love for planes and he quickly became a pilot. He often flew his family and friends to fun destinations. Don moved to Decatur, AL in 1957 and joined Central United Methodist Church where he met Marie. They were married in 1960. He was a faithful member of Central United Methodist for almost 60 years. Don began working for Allstate as an insurance agent in 1959. He retired after 38 years where he made lifelong friends that he traveled with and enjoyed spending time with.

His love for others and community service led him in his 50 years in The Decatur Civitan Club. In 2000, Don was recognized as The Civitan of the Year. He also volunteered with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program, Meals on Wheels, The Committee on Church Cooperation, Salvation Army, and PACT. His love of sports was channeled to tennis. For many years, he spent 3 mornings each week playing tennis with the “guys” at The Jimmy Johns Tennis Center as well as playing countless tennis matches with family. He was a devoted man of God, husband, father, and grandfather. Our hearts are broken for the loss of such a kind, generous, and gentle man who loved his family and friends dearly.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife of 59 years Marie, his son Bruce, and his brother Richard.

He is survived by his daughter Beth Rigoni (Chris), his grandson Daniel Hales and many wonderful extended family members.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to either of the following: Central United Methodist Church, 616 Jackson Street SE Decatur, AL 35601 or The Decatur Civitan Club, 508 N Mountain Dr. Trinity, AL 35673

Pallbearers will be Lem Meherg, Blair Hill, Micah Rigoni, John Mason Rigoni, Gary Roberts and Shane Haynes.