Donny Ray Stephens

Donald Ray “Donny” Stephens, 69, of Ozark, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

Born on December 20, 1956, in Pasadena, Texas, Donny was raised in Alvin, where he played baseball from childhood through his high school years. A lifelong sports fan, he faithfully followed the Houston Astros, Dallas Cowboys, and Houston Rockets, rarely missing a game on television and attending whenever he had the opportunity.

After graduating from high school, Donny pursued a career as a stagehand, combining his love of music with a remarkable talent for working behind the scenes. He toured with several renowned musicians, including Rusty Burns of Point Blank, Ricky Lynn Gregg of Head East, and Doug Supernaw and his band. It was while touring with Doug that Donny discovered southwest Missouri, where he fell in love with the beauty of the Ozarks and the warmth of its people. Over the years, Southwest Missouri came to hold a special place in his heart, and for nearly 30 years he considered it home.

After his years on the road, Donny built a successful career as an electrician, taking great pride in his work until retiring in 2018.

Donny never sought the spotlight. He was the kind of person who quietly showed up, worked hard, and could always be counted on to lend a helping hand. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart, love of music, and unwavering loyalty to those he cared about.

He is survived by his devoted companion and longtime best friend, Susie Johanson; his stepmother, Barbara Stephens; his brothers, Jimmy Stephens, Al Stephens (Recha), Mike Jones (Penny), and Bobby Jones; his sisters, Teri Varnado (Don) and Leslie Maus (Bob); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melba Juanita Benton and J.D. Stephens, and his stepfather, Pat Benton.

A memorial service celebrating Donny’s life will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at South Park Baptist Church in Alvin, Texas. A luncheon will follow immediately after the service, and family and friends are warmly invited to remain, share memories, and celebrate the life of a man who will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Cremation rites have been accorded by Adams Crematory and arrangements are under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Ozark.