David Stephenson

Our precious son, David Allen Stephenson, was gifted to us on February 10, 1985, and passed away at his home on Sunday, November 16, 2025.

A devoted believer, David is now resting safely in the presence of our Savior, Jesus Christ. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

David was of the Christian/Baptist faith and was a member of Burning Bush Baptist Church in Ringgold, Georgia. David had a Bachelor's degree for College of Liberal Arts at Northwestern State University of Louisiana. He was also a member of the Chattanooga Choral Society for the preservation of African-American songs.

To know David was to know genuine kindness. He was caring, generous, and gave without hesitation-never questioning anyone's need or motives. Helping others was simply who he was. His heart was enormous, his spirit carefree, and he viewed every person through eyes of goodness. Fun-loving, always cutting up, and happiest surrounded by friends, David would gladly give a stranger the shirt off his back. He often said he never worried about money-he'd just make more. Even in times of success, he remained humble and unpretentious, choosing thrifted clothes, worn-in New Balance shoes, and used vehicles. He never put on airs. His family believes he had one of the greatest hearts ever placed in a human being.

Though his tendency to see only the best in others sometimes led to heartache, he continued to love people unconditionally. He lived the greatest commandment daily: Love your neighbor as yourself. That was David-pure, forgiving, compassionate, always seeking peace. He was the family peacemaker, quick to forgive, and eager to restore harmony.

David loved gardening, cooking, and caring for animals. He enjoyed playing guitar, listening to music, and was an exceptionally talented artist. To his family, he gave the priceless gift of expressing love freely and often. He ended every conversation with his mother by thanking her for "having him" and saying "I love you." With his dad, he closed each talk with a playful "Big Papa Pump" and an always heartfelt "I love you."

David is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Steve and Shirley Stephenson, Walter and Margaret Abel, and Charles Medica; and maternal grandfather Bruce Allen Warner Sr

He is survived by his parents Debbie and Frank Abel and Michael and Sherri Stephenson; his siblings Evan (Nikita) Abel, Maegan (Kevin) Ortiz, Michael Ryan Stephenson (Partner Chase Powell), and Anna (Josh) Hershberger; and his beloved grandmothers Stella Warner and Judy Medica.

He is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Maternal - Bruce & Nancy Warner, Catherine Smith, Steven & Brenda Warner; Paternal - Terry & Robert Hunnell, Sandy & Dan Pierce, Dottie & the late Charles Carrick, Mary Margaret & Joe Stamper

David's legacy is one of love, generosity, and a heart that sought the good in everyone. His light will continue to shine through the countless lives he touched.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday November 24, 2025 with a visitation from 11:00-1:00pm, and a funeral service at 1:00 pm with Pastor Joseph Frejosky officiating. Burial will follow at Hilcrest Memorial Gardens.