Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Bill Stephens


(From Parker Mortuary)

Bill Lee Stephens, age 95, Joplin, passed away on Monday, December 27, 2021 at Joplin Gardens.

Bill was born February 18, 1926 to the union of Hal and Gertrude (Nees) Stephens. He grew up in Joplin and was a 1944 graduate of Joplin High. 

After high school, he married his best friend Stella Marie Webber on July 7, 1944 in Columbus, Kansas. Together they enjoyed 55 beloved years before her passing on June 27, 1999. 








He worked as a fireman for 33 years before retiring. He enjoyed playing fast pitch softball for many years and watching old westerns. He was a lifetime member of the Joplin Elks Lodge and loved playing cards with his Elk lodge buddies. Bill was an avid golfer and played just about anywhere he could. But most of all, he loved going to the movies with his daughter, Jane. He loved all of his family fiercely.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Hal and Gertrude Stephens; wife, Stella; three brothers; and two sisters.

Bill is survived by his two children, Mitch Stephens and Jane McGinnis; four grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren and one on the way.

There will be a private burial held with a celebration of life announced at a later time.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Elks Christmas Basket Program care of Parker Mortuary.

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