Donald R Stevens' Obituary
Donald Ray Stevens, 86, of Lakeland, Florida, died Monday, December 12, 2016, after a brief illness. Don was born May 30, 1930 in Grafton, West Virginia, one of six children of William and Minnie Mae Stevens. He grew up in Fairmont, West Virginia, where he met his childhood sweetheart and love of his life, Donna Jo Crislip. They married in 1950 and raised three children.
Don served in the U.S. Navy from 1948 – 1953 where he learned the electrical trade that would become his life’s work. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. His expertise as an electrician was a great benefit to help family and friends. He could fix anything – cars, appliances, plumbing and electrical -- and enjoyed remodeling and handyman projects at his own home as well as those of others who needed a little help. But his most important job and proudest accomplishment was Dad and Papaw to his three children, four grandchildren, two step grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. He was happiest spending time together with his family.
Don is loved and missed by his daughter, Sandra Stevens McPherson, Sandy’s husband and his best buddy, Hollace, his son Rob Stevens, Rob’s wife and Don’s “girlfriend” Leah, four grandchildren – Kelly McPherson, Ryan Stevens, Cameron Stevens and Mallory Stevens Self – step grandchildren Heather Scherrer and Sammy Scherrer, and four great grandchildren – Dawna Jo and Zachary Stevens, McKinley and Kaisleigh Self and Papaw’s ice cream buddy, Kiersten Scherrer. He is also survived by his best friends -- sister Gladys Stevens Everson and her husband, John -- and an extended family of nieces and nephews.
Although our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing our Dad, Papaw, brother, uncle and friend is with Jesus and is now reunited with his sweetheart, Donna Jo, son Rick, his parents, a brother and four sisters, reminiscing on a backyard swing in heaven.
In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Don Stevens may be sent to:
Crystal Lake United Methodist Church
2001 N. Crystal Lake Drive
Lakeland, FL 33801
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