Brother Bill Stephens

Reverend William Grebrery Stephens, age 69 passed away Saturday, February 11, 2012 just two weeks shy of his 70th birthday in Fort Walton Beach Medical Center. He was born February 26, 1942 in East Point, Georgia the son of Reverend William Nelson Stephens and Doris Starrett Stephens. Brother Bill graduated from Nichol’s High School in New Orleans. He worked in various cities and for various companies including Gulf Power Company in Niceville. Brother Bill felt the call of the Lord for pastoral work at a very young age and served churches in Mississippi and Florida and in 1998 he accepted a church in Seagrove Beach. He had been wanting to relocate closer to DeFuniak Springs to help his mother in caring for his father . He then accepted the pastorate of Calvary Baptist Church in DeFuniak Springs. Failing health caused his retirement in 2010 as pastor but his love for people and his caring and understanding heart never went into retirement. He was a student of the Bible and his hunger for God’s Word never ceased. Bill Stephens lived his life for his Lord and Savior.

Among survivors are his wife, Beverly Carroll Stephens. His son, Greg Stephens and wife Elaine of Leaguecity, Texas. His daughter, Margaret Hinrichsen and husband John. His mother, Doris Starrett Stephens. His father-in-law John C. Hilbun of Soso, Mississippi. Three grandsons, Cristopher and wife Kim, Clayton and Colin. His brother, Tom Stephens and wife Sandy of Luzerne, Michigan. His sisters-in-law, Libby Mahaffey, Cindy Roberts and husband Clain and Charlynn Hilbun. Nieces and nephews that were precious to him also survive.

Floral arrangements are being accepted. The family will receive friends Monday, February 13, 2012 from 6 until 8 P.M. in Jerry Evans Chapel. Funeral services will be Tuesday, February 14, 2012 at 1:00 P.M. in Jerry Evans Chapel with Dr. John Hilbun and Reverend Bob Glass officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery.