Toft Funeral Home and Crematory
2001 Columbus Ave
Sandusky, OH 44870
Phone: 419-625-8816
Website: http://www.toftfh.com
View All Obituaries from Toft Funeral Home and Crematory
Pastor W. Benson Stephens Sr., 88, Sandusky, died Thursday, March 10, 2011, in Firelands Regional Medical Center.
He was born on July 24, 1922 in Phenix City, AL, to Chester and Maggie (Comer) Stephens, the 3rd of four children. Pastor Stephens attended Clark University of Atlanta, graduated from American Baptist Theological Seminary, Nashville, TN, with a bachelor's degree in Theology. He also earned a bachelor of Science with academic distinction from Agricultural and Industrial State College of Tennessee. He enlisted in the U.S. Army during WWII, and also rose to the rank of first lieutenant in the Korean War, and was discharges as a chaplain in 1953. Pastor Stephens was a servant leader to the local community as a the pastor of Second Baptist Church for 35 years, a substitute teacher in the Sandusky School System since 1970, and a permanent fixture with the NAACP. Consequently, he has pastored five churches in the states of Alabama, Tennessee, and Ohio during his tenure as a Baptist minister.
He is survived by his wife, Rosie (Chavers) Stephens; daughter, Cynthia Stephens, CA; sons, Todd Stephens, OH, Weyman Stephens Jr., PA, and Julian Stephens, CO; step-mother, Dorothy Stephens, AL; sister, Loretta, AL; brother, Chris, AL; and nine grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother; and two sisters.
Friends may call on Wednesday, March 16, 2011, from 7-9 P.M. in Ebenezer Baptist Church, 1215 Pierce St., Sandusky. The body will lie in state from 10 A.M. until time of funeral services at 11 A.M. on Thursday in Ebenezer Baptist Church. Rev. Clayton Howard will officiate, with his son, Weyman Stephens Jr. providing the eulogy. The American Legion Post 83, Sandusky, will hold military honors following services at the church.
Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to Ebenezer Baptist Church. Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, 2001 Columbus Ave., Sandusky is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be shared at www.toftfh.com.
