Kenneth Levi Stephens Jr. Obituary (1946

In the company of loving family, Kenneth Levi Stephens Jr, age 73, died on 1 April 2020 after an unexpected, brief illness. Born in Lexington, KY to his parents, Kenneth Stephens Sr. and Joycelyn Spellman, his family moved frequently associated with his father's work as a salesman for Johns Manville. His mother was an elementary teacher and school administrator, and helped foster Ken's lifelong love of learning and deep seated connection to family and faith. She came from a long family line of Methodist ministers, and Ken enjoyed many family reunions in Kerrville, Texas where folks gathered to share family stories, sing hymns and to play. Throughout childhood Ken enjoyed scouting and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He attended four different high schools and graduated from school in New Orleans. Ken earned degrees from Southern Methodist University (member Delta Sigma Phi) and Boston University, and attended Perkins School of Theology where he was ordained as a deacon in the Methodist Church and served three small churches in rural Texas. He was later drawn to the Episcopalian faith, and switched religious affiliation to attend the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest in Austin,TX. Throughout his life, Ken was drawn to a broad understanding of spirituality and ways to connect with God. Ken had another change in life direction when he enlisted in the Army to help support his young family. His commitment to caring for others played out in his work as a a behavioral health specialist and instructor in the military. While stationed in Munich, he met his wife Loretta. Upon discharge from the service, he remained in Europe as a Department of Defense civilian and enjoyed many travel adventures with his family. When the family relocated to Washington, Ken continued work as a DOD civilian for the Navy Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program until his retirement. He viewed major challenges he encountered more like puzzles to be solved than problems that overwhelmed. Ken's levelheaded perspective helped him to both understand different points of view, while conveying respect and caring for others. Ken was an avid reader and particularly enjoyed whimsical science fiction and fantasy - Piers Anthony and Terry Pratchett were favorite authors. He discovered a love of theater, and was actively involved with local community theater for many years. Ken was also active in his church, and served in many roles. He was a quiet man who made a big difference to others, conveying acceptance and a sense of safety through his compassion, love and laughter. Ken had a big heart, a good sense of humor and he dearly loved his family and friends. He is survived by his spouse of 33 years, Loretta McGinley, four children, Kenneth Stephens III, Elizabeth Stephens, Katherine Stephens and Sarah Stephens and by six grandchildren, Cedar Stephens, Rowen Stephens, River Stephens and Janelle Morris, Liam Smoody and Gillian Smoody, and by his sister, Jan Horton of Marshall, Texas. Ken will be remembered for his steadfast love of family, friends and his faith, for his wise and understanding life perspective, and for his big, heart-warming smile. Due to COVID concerns, a memorial service and celebration of life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Antony of Egypt Episcopal Church, Silverdale and/or to the Alzheimer's Association.