Roger William Stephens passed away at The Carpenter House on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

As the eldest of four children born to Michael and Rachel Stephens in Pensacola, Florida, Roger assumed the role of caring, nurturing big brother throughout his life. Roger constantly demonstrated his caring heart: whether it be aiding stranded individuals by offering them shelter in hotel rooms, stepping in as a father figure for those in need, or ensuring he didn't pass a peach stand or lemonade booth without supporting their small business.

Along with his giving nature, Roger's zest for life was unmatched. He was known for his adventures, like when he built a wooden boat with a car engine to blast down the duck pond, or when he was able to gain an exclusive ride on a replica of the Niña just because he asked. He always made sure to include his family in the fun, through events like family shrimp boils or an impromptu camping trip on Galveston beach when no hotels were available. He even became notorious as the "neighborhood grandpa", putting a bell on any child's bike that asked. Roger created meaningful memories for all who encountered him.

Roger met his wife Pat while he was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base, and they soon married in 1962. The couple lived in many cities before finally settling in Bossier Parish, where Roger and Pat built their beautiful family home by hand. That house served as a peaceful haven to raise their children for 18 years.

Roger was a member of the US Air Force and traveled worldwide, then worked as a machinist at Western Electric and Avaya for 35 years. After his retirement from Avaya, he assumed the full time role of "Papa". Roger's family was the most important thing in the world to him. He did everything he could to attend his children and grandchildren's events, even virtually if need be. He loved being a part of his children's activities, volunteering to drive the church bus, acting as a boy scout and cub scout leader, being an active member in the band booster club, and coaching his son's football team. His influence on his grandchildren was also evident as he played dominoes with them, taught them how to swim, and showed them his favorite way to make biscuits and gravy.

Roger took up many hobbies over the course of his life. His fascination for Amtrak trains led him to tour famous trains and depots, as well as to meticulously build his own extensive train sets that he loved to show off to his family. By train or car, he enjoyed traveling all over the country with his wife Pat, eager to learn about new places. He also loved riding his motorcycle, even attaching a sidecar so that his children could ride with him. Additionally, Roger loved collecting metal car replicas and brain teaser puzzles, and he even taught himself to play the harmonica and the Native American flute.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia Hendrix Stephens, and his three children: Kenneth Wayne Stephens and wife Sheree of Shreveport, LA, Mark Randall Stephens of Dallas, TX, and Shannon Leigh Lawhead and husband John of Austin, TX. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Madeline Anne Stephens, Mollee Christine Stephens, Matthew Wayne Stephens, Olivia Kate Lawhead, Addison Aubrey Lawhead, and one great grandson, Bentlee Stephens. Additionally, his loving sisters Dianne McMullan, Jill Derrick, and Elisa Carnley, sisters in law, Judy Thompson and Dianne Stewart, and a host of nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews will carry on his legacy.

Roger was preceded in death by his father and mother, Michael Joseph Stephens and Rachel Belle Stephens, his brothers in law, Ronnie Stewart and Jim Talley, and his beloved best friends, Eddie Vignolo and Billy Creel.

Per Roger's request, no service will be held and there will be a private celebration of life honoring him.