Oliver Charles Stephens, Sr.

Oliver C. Stephens, Sr., 84, of Black Rock, passed away on Wednesday, September 6, 2017, at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro.

Oliver was born in Hoxie and attended Pocahontas High School. Following high school Oliver enlisted in the U.S. Army. He entered Officer Candidate School and served 20 years and 9 months active duty and retired in 1973 with the rank of Captain. He had 3 tours of Vietnam and was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Star and the Bronze Star Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster in addition to other medals.

Following discharge from the Army, Oliver graduated from Arkansas State University and taught school in Lawrence County. Once he retired, Oliver and his wife Bonnie purchased a motorhome and hit the road for 10 years. He enjoyed traveling, camping and RVing. When Oliver settled back in Lawrence County, he became the Veteran Service Officer of Lawrence County, assisting veterans until his 75th birthday. Oliver also enjoyed golfing, bowling and spending time with his family.

Oliver was a member of Main Street church of Christ in Walnut Ridge and was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Stephens; his parents: James C. and Mellie Maye Carley Stephens; a sister, Fayes Yates and 3 brothers: Thomas, Isaac and Jason Stephens.

Survivors include 3 daughters: Nicki Black (Mark Pelletier) of Maryland, Pamela Lester (Oren Hancock) of Pocahontas, and Stephanie Rose (Tony Anglin) of Black Rock;
1 son, Oliver Charles Stephens, Jr. of Walnut Ridge;
1 sister, Natonia Gokey of Black Rock;
12 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

Per Oliver's request, all services and burial will be private. There will be no visitation.

In lieu of flowers, please give consideration to the Kidney Foundation of Arkansas, 1 Lile Court, Suite 201, Little Rock, AR 72205, or Alzheimer's Association Arkansas, 5506 Walsh Lane, Suite 212, Rogers, AR 72756.