Col. Billie Lee Stephens

Billie L. Stephens, 87, passed away at home under hospice care Monday, Jan. 20. His last words were "I'm ready to go to work" which exemplified his life-long attitude, with double careers of Military service and education. He was born on October 9, 1926 in Comanche TX. He moved to Arizona, attended ASU and also worked, raised his family and lived for 79 years. He retired as a full Colonel in the US Army after 33 years of service in World War II, the Korean War, and Viet Nam. He was honored extensively including the Meritorius Service Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge, and was a member of the elite Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame. He was a teacher, coach, and administrator in the Phoenix Union High School District, and he helped to open Carl T. Hayden and Maryvale High Schools. He was Dean of Students at Maryvale when he retired. He was preceded in death by his two wives, Dorothy and Lisa, and his three sons, Bill, Jim, and John. He is survived by his step daughters Cathy and Joni, daughters-in-law Georgellen and Janine, 7 grandchildren; Richard, Deborah, Andrew, Emily, Angela, Chris and Julia, and 5 great grandchildren; Anna, Will, Carter, Addison and Alyssa. He is beloved by many and will be greatly missed.

Services Honoring Billie will begin at 11:00 am, Friday, January 24, with Visitation one hour prior, Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care, 6747 E. Broadway Road, Mesa, 85206.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Billie’s name to: Col. Richard Minor, Chairman AZYL (Arizona Youth Leadership), 8300 E. Dixileta Dr. #26, Scottsdale, 85266. AZYL Inc. is a 501-C3 organization.