Luther Thomas Stephens Jr.

Luther Thomas Stephens, a Vietnam Veteran and resident of Fort Worth, TX, entered the gates of Heaven on Sunday, May 23, 2021, surrounded by his family. Luke, as he was known by many, was born on April 19, 1948, in Americus, GA. After graduating from high school, he immediately enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served in the Vietnam War as a Sergeant from 1968-1970. He rarely spoke of his years of service; however, he was proud to be serving his country and as an only child, he served because he wanted to not because he had to. While serving, he received many medals, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, the Army Commendation Medal and finally the Bronze Star Medal. Luke was honorably discharged from the Army in May of 1970.

On June 26, 1976, he married his wife, Kris Stephens. They lived in many of the southern states, as he worked in retail management for many years, until his medical retirement in 2001. He and Kristine only had one child but were blessed to have a wonderful son-in-law and two earthly grandchildren and one grandbaby in Heaven. In October of 2013, they moved to Fort Worth, TX to be close to their daughter and her family.

My Daddy was and always will be my hero and I will always be Daddy's little girl! He was the best Papa that loved his grandbabies unconditionally and they were the light of his world! These last few days have been emotionally and physically exhausting for our family but we are so glad that he is no longer suffering from PTSD, heart issues, doesn't need oxygen and can walk freely without pain. It has been so difficult seeing my Daddy in the condition that he was in but I'm so grateful that I was able to spend his final hours holding his hand, talking to him and wrapping my arms around him. I am so grateful that the last words he said fluently to me and my babies were "I love you!”

He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren playing blocks, putting puzzles together, drawing and playing games. His grandchildren were his world and he loved them just as much as they loved him.

Luke is survived by his wife, Kris, of almost 45 years. He is also survived by his daughter, Tasha (Ben) Pearson as well as his granddaughter, Maelin and his grandson, Kellan; Sister in law Gail (John) Hanson, niece and nephew, Nicole and Sam Hanson, as well as several great nieces and great nephews.

A small private family gathering will take place on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at Keller Old Town Funeral Home, as we remember the wonderful Husband, Daddy, and Papa that Luke was!