Alexander Grant Stephens

He was born on 04 February 1998 here in North Carolina, home of the Carolina Hurricanes "Hell Yeah!"

Alex’s life was shaped by and around the outdoors, beginning with Scouts, 4-H club, sports, and beyond. He graduated from Hoke High School, where he excelled in soccer, baseball, bowling, and a little golf. Yes, real golf, with a ball, not the golf of his childhood, “busting windows of cars in the salvage yard” – Grandpa Ray.

After high school, Alex joined the United States Army. He began his training at Fort Benning, Georgia, then moved to Fort Drum, NY. Alex served on a deployment in Kosovo. After leaving the military, Alex worked with Pepsi for a couple of years, which took him to Wilmington, NC, where he joined the Wilmington Police Department.

Alex is survived by his grandparents, Ray Chandler and Deborah Staley (Chuck); his parents; Kimberly and Kenny Young; his siblings, Emily Stephens, Shelby Sweigart (Garrett), Joshua Young (Savannah), and Trevor Young; his nieces and nephews, Harlyn, Colt, Nova, and Scarlett; and his dog, Sierra.

A visitation will be held at Hillcrest Baptist Church, 2699 US-401 BUS, Raeford, NC 28376, on August 27, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

A Memorial Service will follow at 5:00 pm with Pastor Toby Neal officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to North Carolina Police Benevolent Association.

Below are cherished memories shared by family and friends:

“The fondest memory of Alex is of him in his Boy Scout uniform.” – Shelby

“Drinking mimosas and eating breakfast, having the loudest conversation like we’re the only people in the restaurant.” – Emily

“You will never get the bottom bunk.” – Josh

“Our morning rides to East Hoke Middle are forever ingrained in my mind.” – Trevor

“Alex is a good dude.” – anonymous

“A guy with a servant’s heart from childhood through adulthood, constantly looking out for others.” – Kenny

“He is still affectionately known by his childhood nickname, Bird.” – the family