I had called and wanted to talk with Lynton Stephenson tonight and was saddened to learn that he had passed away 6 months ago. SMSgt Stephenson was one of my crew chiefs, 1967-1969, at Seymour Johnson AFB radar approach control (RAPCON), where he signed my first air traffic control rating. He was a handsome airman, always appearing in a starched or pressed uniform and ready for duty. I learned a great deal from him about working under stress, focusing, resolving problems, humor, and looking sharp.

I found him by phone in New Bern in 2020, and we talked a few times over recent years about our work, places we had been, and what we had done lately.

Today, the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, seemed like the right time to call a distinguished airman, a real leader of then-young men, one of the most memorable and important people one could know.

He made a real difference in my life, and though I miss him tonight, I am glad I was able to reconnect in recent years.

The family has my sympathy in the loss of this fine man.

Sending thoughts and prayers. Just learned of his passing. My parents always enjoyed visiting with him and dad always enjoyed playing golf. My parents are Max and Goldie Miller, SR. in Staunton , VA. 
Prayers for all of you.

Bruce and Sherry Doyle
Churchville, VA

Lynton was the best friend of my father, Jack Gilbertz, for many years in Fairfield. Lynton was the first person Jack met in 1979 to find out about Fairfield because they had both been air traffic controllers. I believe Lynton was the first resident at the Harbour.  Starting in the 2000s, they formed a small coffee klatch that met for an hour at 10am every week day.  I was so envious. This was a fantastic group of guys who had wonderful conversations and the best stories of each were repeated numerous times but no less enthusiastically.
 
Lynton was  group leader and religiously made coffee before they arrived.  Lynton was also probably the best story teller, honed during his many years in the USAF. Sometimes he would show up in his beloved late-model Ford Thunderbird convertible but mostly drove his golf cart, since he never missed playing a daily round of golf, even into his 90s. 

The group also helped each other out, as needed, and checked on any of the singles who did not show up. I got updates on everyone during weekly phone calls with Jack.

Lynton was one of the best and I will always cherish knowing him and the stories he shared. RIP

I’m very thankful for Uncle Doc and Aunt Joyce inviting mom and dad to dinner one night for them to meet and fall in love! 
I have many fun memories of our beach vacations together. I never minded the long drive from Michigan when I had the beach to look forward to! 
Sending much love, hugs and prayers for your family

Very, very sorry to hear of Lynton's passing.  Lyton was a kind, generous, humorous, full-of-life man who was a wonderful friend to my mother, Anita.  On my visits I always looked forward to afternoon wine and jokes as we watched old TV shows and talked about the events of the day.  I will miss him greatly.

John Tetzloff

OBITUARY

Lynton Eldridge Stephenson

February 23, 1932 – November 1, 2024

Cotten Funeral Home

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