T. J. "Bud" Stephens, Jr., son of the late Thomas Joel, Sr. and Iva Mae Evans Stephens, was born in Bloomfield, Missouri on September 21, 1936, and passed away at his home in Dexter, Missouri on April 18, 2015, at the age of 78 years, 6 months and 28 days.

He had lived in St. Louis before returning to Dexter over forty years ago. He had worked at General Cable in St. Louis and was a self employed plumber. He was of the Methodist faith.

On July 15, 1956, he was married to Genevieve "Jeannie" Carpenter in Lodi, California. She preceded him in death on January 14, 2003.

Surviving are two daughters and spouses, Dollie & Dewayne Stoner of Dexter, Roxanne "Rocky" & David Ashby of DeBary, Florida; two sons and spouse, Thomas Joel "Joe", III & Kari Stephens of O'Fallon, Missouri, Charles E. "Chuck" Stephens of Dexter, Missouri; 8 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and one sister & spouse, Irma & Gene Jackson of Aid. Many other relatives and friends also survive.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Edna Honey and Francis Price.

Friends may call on Saturday, April 25, 2015, after 12:30 p.m. at the Watkins & Sons Funeral Home in Dexter.

Services will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the Watkins & Sons Chapel in Dexter with the Rev.  of  officiating.

Missouri Military Honors will follow in the Bloomfield Cemetery in Bloomfield, Missouri with Watkins & Sons Funeral Service of Dexter in charge of arrangements.

Watkins & Sons Funeral Service
www.watkinsfuneralhome.com