EARL JACOB "BUTCH" STEPHENS JR. passed away in Rockport, Texas on, May 3, 2016 following a brief battle with cancer. Affectionately referred to as Butch by the family and friends he cherished, he was born in Belleville, Pennsylvania, on October 12, 1942, to Helen & Earl Jacob Stephens Sr..  Butch  moved to Rockport in 1967, becoming a barber/hairdresser and enjoyed a career that spanned over 40 years with Stephens Hair Company. Butch never met a stranger, and this gift contributed to his success. It was particularly meaningful when he entered the real estate business with Jerre Ledbetter, at Key Allegro Sales. A licensed Realtor for over 15 years, his genuine love of people and dedication to integrity was only exceeded by his professionalism. Most recently, he was associated with Dayne and Parkie Ledbetter Luce, at Luce Properties. Butch loved his town and was active in civic and charitable endeavors. He was a member of the Lions Club for over 30 years, the Rotary Club, a lifetime member of Rockport Masonic Lodge,  the Shriners and Boy Scouts of America. He served as President of the Rockport Chamber of Commerce and President of the Rockport Area Association of Realtors. Butch loved his country and served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Forrestal . He was preceded by his parents and his sister Shirley DeGroat. Butch is survived by his wife of 36 years, Bonnie Stephens, sister Nell Gordon of Georgia, and daughters Tammy Hays (David) and their children Baron and Chase of Rockport, Gina Kirkland (Larry) and their children Tyler, Victoria, Mallori and Hailey of Portland, Traci Ladner (Russell) and her children Ralee and Braxton of Ingleside, Saundra Kichler (Stephen) and their children Savannah and Stephen of Gulf Shores, Alabama, and an abundance of nieces and nephews who loved and admired their very special uncle.

A memorial service will be held at the Rockport Presbyterian Church at 10:00 am on Saturday May 6, 2017.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of  Butch Stephens to St. Jude Hospital and Shriners Children’s Hospital, organizations very dear to his heart.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home, Aransas Pass.

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