Gerald Marion Stephens

Gerald Marion Stephens, 86, of Fulton, passed away on Saturday, August 10, 2019, in his home, surrounded by family. He was born in Canton, Kansas on February 4, 1933, the son of the late Murry Victor Stephens and the late Nona Irene (Brucker) Stephens. He graduated from high school in Mountain Home, Arkansas but spent most of his school years in Wilson, Kansas. On August 19, 1952, Gerald was united in marriage to Thelma (Cochran) Stephens. She preceded him in death on August 4, 2010. G. M., as he was often referred to, was an excellent model of good work ethic and instilled this in his family. He began his career as a laborer in heavy construction and upon early retirement, had been a project manager and corporate leader. He much preferred wearing a hard hat and being among the workers in the field. He often assisted others with obtaining employment, giving anyone a chance to have the means to take care of themselves and provide for their families. He enjoyed working and had a second career as rural route mail carrier for as long as he was able. He was also referred to as Jerry. He enjoyed many activities, especially those that were family oriented. Annual family reunions occurred when family united from various places in the US for the USBC National Bowling Tournament, where he was a participant for 35 years. Our favorite motto from the days without cell phones and the frustration of temporarily losing members from our own group, was declared by Jerry's sister "IF THIS ISN'T A BUNCH!" He was a member of the Oroville, California Masonic Lodge and the Fulton Masonic Lodge #48 for a total of 53 years. He took great pride in his involvement with this organization. Jerry was witty and often brought laughter to the room. Amazingly, he maintained his sense of humor and compassion for others until the end. He was an avid card player, with Bridge and Pinochle being his favorites. He enjoyed many sports and was a significant support to his grandchildren, by attending games, keeping their stats, and giving them the courage to be their best. Jerry was a man of incredible strength although stubborn at times, and loved and admired by many. He had a calm demeanor, and through his example taught us the importance of values and to honor ourselves and our country. We were blessed to have known him and his influence will continue to direct us in our daily lives. Those remaining to cherish his memory include his sisters, Myrna Pitchford (Duane) of Lodi, Calif., Cheryl Pitts of Moorhead, Minn., and Michelle Allen of Oroville, Calif.; children, Gerald Stephens Jr. (Sharon) of Shelton, Wash., Trudy Stephens-Baker (Danny) of Fulton, Lori Conner of Mokane, Murry Scott Stephens of Holts Summit; grandchildren, Lea Anna Brewer (Rickie) of Prattville, Ala., Adam Stephens of Bremerton, Wash., Kristin Scaggs (Levi) of Port Orchard, Wash., Eric Conner (Kelsey) of Chester, Va., Brooke Conner of Fulton, Austin Baker of Fulton, Kennedy Anderson (Dylan) of Fulton, and Celeste Templin (Joe) of Maricopa, Ariz.; and daughter-in-law, Rita Stewart of Prattville, Ala. He had 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. Those preceding him in death were a son, Kenneth Richard Stephens; daughter-in-law, Cathy Stephens; grandsons, Kenneth Richard Stephens Jr. and Justin Stephens; and sister, Zona Sewell. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 17, 2019, at Hillcrest Cemetery with Chaplain Bart Larson officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to SERVE, Inc. Transportation, c/o Maupin Funeral Home, 301 Douglas Boulevard, Fulton, MO 65251. Condolences may be left for the family at www.maupinfuneralhome.com.