DONALD N STEPHENS

Donald Nelson Stephens, Sr., 93, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7th. Donald was born in Holden, and led a life filled with love, dedication and service to others. He was united in marriage to his beloved wife, June Ann Latham on March 31st, 1951. Together, they recently celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary, a testament to their enduring love and commitment. Their union was blessed with five children, Michael J. Stephens, and his wife, Laurie, James P. Stephens and his wife, Celeste, Matthew. Stephens and his wife, Lisa, Donald N. Stephens, Jr. and his wife, Deborah and Christine Stephens Tretheway. As a devoted family man, Donald took immense pride in his role as a father, and grandfather. He also is survived by his eight grandchildren, Ashley and Derek Stephens, Kelly and Colleen Stephens, Michaella and Courtney Tretheway and Matthew and Patrick Stephens. Additionally, he was blessed with four great-grandchildren, Daniel, Shya, Stratton and Declan.

Donald served his country with honor and distinction as a member of the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he became a lifetime member of the American Legion, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his fellow veterans. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, the Elks and the Lions Club, where he found camaraderie and community.

Throughout his professional life, Donald was known for his integrity, work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He provided for his family as a skilled and honest salesperson for various companies in the Worcester County area. His true passion lay in entrepreneurship, owning multiple small businesses before his retirement. An avid sports enthusiast, Donald had a deep love for baseball and was a student of the game. Over three decades, he dedicated himself to coaching, managing and umpiring where he instilled the values of teamwork and sportsmanship to countless young athletes. Later in life he discovered a new passion for golf, relishing the challenge of teaching himself and achieving a single-digit handicap.

In his final years, Donald selflessly devoted himself to caring for his beloved wife during her illness, serving as her caregiver at two different memory care units. His unwavering love and dedication were a source of comfort and strength to his family during this challenging time.

His funeral will be held Monday, May 13th at 11:00 a.m. in St. Columba Church, 12 Richards Avenue in Paxton. Burial with military honors will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. A visitation will be held from 9:30 until 10:30 a.m. in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38104 or Easter Seals of Massachusetts, 18 Chestnut Street, Suite 200, Worcester, MA 01608.