Zell Russell Stephens

Zell Russell Stephens, age 71, passed away peacefully at home on July 7, 2021. The Jasper, Florida native was born on May 22, 1950 to the late Mary Lee Sills Griffin and the late Samuel Clyde Stephens. Zell graduated from Jasper High School and joined the Army Rangers. He served in Vietnam and many years in the Florida National Guard. He wore many hats during his lifetime. He owned a welding supply store in Perry, owned his own trucking business, towing mobile homes to the stricken area(s) after Hurricane Andrew.

His most notable accomplishment in his life was his devotion to his family, assisting in the raising of many children, notably Greg, Jay, Bert and Charlie Stephens of Lake City; whom he considered as his sons. He is preceded in death by his brothers and sisters, Jessie Mancil, Sammy Stephens, Maxie Stephens, Mary Lou Webb, Robert Stephens and Sara Stephens.

He is survived by his wife, Deb Wright Stephens of 17 years; his daughter, Dawn (Greg) Daniels of Ozark, AL, son,  Chad (Dana) Stephens of Lynne Haven, FL, and his daughter, Heather Stephens Pace of Port Richey, FL; his step-daughters, Ginelle (Mark) Smith and Beth (Bobby) Sanders both of Bell, FL and a step-son, Quincy (Donna) Wright of Fort White, FL. Twenty-seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren along with his brothers, Seth (Bonnie) Mancil of Adel, GA and David (Judy) Stephens of Waverly, GA, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was an avid FSU Fan, and enjoyed NASCAR. He loved working with his hands in Carpentry, building beautiful cedar hope chests for all of his “Girls”. He could do just about anything he put his mind to. The love and devotion of family is what brought him most joy in his life. Zell was a strong, kind and gentle man. He will be dearly missed and forever loved.

A memorial and celebration of his life is scheduled for July 31, 2021 at his home in Lake City, FL from 11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. It will be officiated by his grandson, Pastor Zach Daniels of Ozark, AL. All family and friends are invited. 

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