Earlon Ray Stephens, 85, of Virginia Beach, Virginia passed away Monday, December 16, 2024 at his home. He was born September 27, 1939 in Somerset, KY, a son of the late Jackson and Novella Meece Stephens.
Earlon joined the United States Navy at the young age of 17. He dedicated 30 years of service to his country, working as an Aviation Safety Mechanic, as well as becoming an instructor and earning the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Being no stranger to hard work, after his retirement from the military he continued working another 20 years at Stihl Incorporated in Virgina Beach.
SURVIVORS:
1 daughter: Teresa (and Doug) Raines of Virginia Beach, Virginia
4 brothers: Rollin Stephens of Argyle, Jerry Stephens of Cleveland, Ohio, Terry (and Maria) Stephens of Flatwoods, and Roger (and Anna) Stephens of Russell Springs
3 sisters: Barbara Bertram of Louisville, Norma (and Steve) Mason of Franklin, Indiana, and Joanne Tucker of Ohio
2 grandchildren: Corey Raines and Chelsea Raines
A host of nieces & nephews
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Frances Irene Charlton Stephens; three brothers: Fred Stephens, James Ralph Stephens, and Oral Gene Stephens; and five sisters: Lucille Eads, Christine Coffey, Virginia Ballew, Jacqueline Claxton, and Lois Garner.
Funeral Service: Monday, December 23, 2024 at 12:00pmCT at Bernard Funeral Home with Bro. Gerald Burton officiating
Burial: Mill Springs National Cemetery with full military honors by the Russell County Honor Guard
Visitation: After 8:30amCT on Monday at the funeral home
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Bernard Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.bernardfuneralhome.com.
