Delbert Lyle Stephens, 93, Excelsior Springs, Mo., died Wednesday, October 3, 2018.
Delbert was born February 23, 1925 in Bethany, Mo., the son of Marion Winfred and Bessie Ann (Flint) Stephens. He graduated from Bethany High School in 1943. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He worked as a linotype operator for Excelsior Springs Daily Standard and the Kansas City Star until his retirement in 1987. He married Sarah Runa Nelson on July 5, 1946, who preceded him in death in 1989. Later, on July 17, 1992, he married Betty Baker, who preceded him in death in 2017.
Delbert was a proud veteran who cherished his faith, family and country. He was a member of Flack Memorial Church. He enjoyed camping and traveling south for the winters, golfing, and coffee time spent with the Old Geezers’ Club at the local McDonald’s. He also thoroughly enjoyed motor vehicles, motorcycles, and wheeling and dealing for the best bargain to be found.
Delbert was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Patty Lackey Covert, and two brothers, Max Stephens and Reay Stephens.
Survivors include one son, Allen L. Stephens (Becky) of Hale, Mo., a step-daughter, Debra Carter (Gene) of Excelsior Springs, Mo., and a step-son, Gary Baker (Mary) of Oak Grove, Mo.; one grandson, Chris Lackey (Amy) of Excelsior Springs, Mo.; two granddaughters, Jennifer Stephens Waring (Matt) of Ankeny, Iowa, and Stephanie Lackey Carder (Richard) of Excelsior Springs, Mo.; six great grandchildren, Hayden Waring, Jackson Waring, Hadley Waring, Caitlin Carder, Bailey Carder, and Gracie Carder; many nieces and nephews; nine step-grandchildren, Joe and Michael Baker, Robyn Estes, Clay St. John (Ann), Kelly Florea (Wes), Megan Dagley (Jared), Sopie Chambers (Kyle), Lily and Phoebe Pyrtle; and 11 step great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 6, 2018, at Flack Memorial Church, Excelsior Springs, Mo. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the services at the church. Burial will be in the Masonic Cemetery, Excelsior Springs.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House.
Arrangements in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home,Excelsior Springs.
