Kevin Ray Stephens

Kevin Ray Stephens, beloved husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 27, 2025, while doing one of the things he loved most- his annual fishing trip to Lake of the Pines in Avinger, Texas.

Born on August 1, 1968, at Garnier Clinic in Bastrop, Louisiana, Kevin was the cherished son of Peggy Stephens Winborne and James Stephens, and his biological father, Tommy Chidester, whose memory he also held in great respect. 

Kevin was a man of unwavering faith who loved the Lord and lived with a servant's heart. He was the steady rock of his family and a source of strength and compassion for all who knew him. A skilled carpenter, multi-craftsman, and true jack-of-all trades, Kevin poured his heart and hands into building and remodeling countless homes over the course of his 56 years- often volunteering his time simply because he loved to help others. His heart of gold and willingness to do anything for anybody were trademarks of his generous spirit.

He is preceded in death by James Stephens and Tommy Chidester; maternal grandparents, Gladys Peters Freeland and Roy Peters; step-grandfather, R.F. Freeland; and paternal grandparents, J.P. Stephens and Audrey Stephens. His beloved brother-in-law, George Wilson.

Kevin is survived by the love of his life and devoted wife of 20 years, Debbie White Stephens of Norman, Arkansas; his mother, Peggy Winborne of Glenwood, Arkansas; and his stepmother, Shelby Chidester of Crossett Arkansas. He is also survived by his sisters; Detra Stephens Wilson of Panama City Beach, Florida; Amanda Chidester of Crossett, Arkansas; Sarah Taylor (Richard) of Trenton, North Carolina; and Tia Taylor (Jeff) of Hamburg, Arkansas.

He leaves behind his children; Melissa Jane Stephens Vance (Jared) of New Bern, North Carolina; Aaron Seth Stephens of Bastrop, Louisiana; Rhianna Stephens of Jacksonville, North Carolina; and Brittany Wallace Lynn (Zachary) of Norman, Arkansas. 

Kevin was a proud and loving "Pawpaw" to a beautiful group of grandchildren who had him wrapped around their little fingers; Bradley Korjan, Bryson Korjan, Luke Stephens, Emma Stephens, Ian Stephens, Zayden Lynn, Kolston Lynn, Samuel Stephens, James Howell, Paxton Stephens, Evan Lynn, and Dominic Vance. He also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved.

To know Kevin was to be blessed by his strength, selfless love, and unwavering faith. His legacy lives on in every life he touched and in every home he constructed by his hands. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Pallbearers will be Kegan Bretton, Parker Pipes, Peyton Pipes, Chase Vallery, Ky Thames, and Bruce Brodnax.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Bobby White, Zachary Lynn, James Meyers, Lance Lucas, Jared Vance, and his coworkers at CertainTeed. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home- Glenwood.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel- Glenwood with Pastor James Turner officiating. 

Internment will be held at Stephens Cemetery weather permitting. The cemetery is located at 26 West Drive, Norman, AR.

Guest Registry can be found at www.smithfamilycares.com