Michael Loyd Stephens of Bells, Texas passed from this life peacefully on January 10, 2022 at his home, with his beloved wife Sharon at his side. He was 71 years young. Mike was born on August 22, 1950 in Big Spring, Texas to Kenneth Bruce and Ernestine (Bailey) Stephens. Four years later, sister Cynthia Lynette completed his family. He married Sharon Elaine Hulme on May 17, 1974 in Dallas, Texas.
Mike and Sharon were blessed with 47 years together. They welcomed daughter Brooke Alyson and son Matthew Ryan, both of whom enriched their lives beyond measure.
Mike was a faithful follower of Jesus, having worshipped with church families at 14th and Main Church of Christ in Big Spring, McArthur Park Church of Christ in San Antonio, Johnson Street Church of Christ in San Angelo, and High Pointe Church of Christ in McKinney. He was a JOY BUS captain for 20+ years, and influenced countless children and families for the Lord. In recent years, he and Sharon team-taught the precious 2 year olds in Bible class. “Mister Mike” was dearly loved by the children who came in contact with him – they came from all over the church building to give him a hug (and to receive one of his famous “bear hugs” in return). For several years, Mike and Sharon were known affectionately as Santa and Mrs. Claus. They brought much joy to area children and nursing home residents.
Mike was an avid sports enthusiast…he loved the Dallas Cowboys, the Mavericks, the Texas Rangers, and FC Dallas. He also loved watching the various basketball, volleyball, and rugby games his grandkids played. He was an enthusiastic supporter of his grandkids’ band, art, and pre-school performances. But his overabiding passion was for youth soccer. He coached several teams as his daughter and son were growing up; he referreed at all levels; he was a referee instructor; he owned a soccer specialty store; and he was the number one fan (tied with Sharon!) of his grandkids’ soccer endeavors.
Mike’s career spanned many varied avenues…from salads line cook to waiter to apprentice mortician to State School aide to Quality Assurance Engineer to entrepreneur to banking Assistant Vice President in Loan Servicing.
Mike and Sharon shared a passion for travel. Their favorite destinations were England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales; they also traveled to El Salvador on Mission Trips, and to the Republic of Georgia where they met and fell in love with their future daughter-in-love and her wonderful family.
Mike and Sharon began a tradition for each of their grandchildren – when they turned 12 years old, each child got a special trip with them. The eldest four grandkids went with Mike and Sharon to England, California, or New England. Such wonderful memories were created!
At age 69, Mike was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic cancer. But this evil disease did not steal his JOY. His pain was intense, but his faith remained unshakable. He knew that soon he’d be rewarded with his heavenly home, free of pain and full of JOY.
Mike is survived by his wife, Sharon; sister and brother-in-love, Cindy and Cliff McFarland; daughter and son-in-love, Brooke and Kyle Morrow; son and daughter-in-love, Matt and Salome Tsereteli-Stephens; and perfect grandchildren, Makenna and Kelsey Morrow; and Elene, Andrew, and Noah Stephens.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Ernestine Stephens.
Mike loved a good party…and a Celebration of Life is planned for January 29, 2022 at 2:00pm at High Pointe Church of Christ in Mckinney, Texas. Celebration reception / party is planned for immediately after the service for friends and family.
Mike is gone from sight but ever present in our hearts…and there ain’t nothing gonna steal our JOY!
Memorial donations may be made to:
El Salvador Children’s Education Program
c/o High Pointe Church of Christ, 3201 N. Central Expressway
Mckinney, Tx. 75071