Frank Almer Stephens' Obituary
Frank was born on March 11, 1939, in Vernon Parish to Matthew and Emily Stephens. He lived a full and adventurous life, marked by hard work, curiosity, and a deep love for people and purpose.
Frank spent many years working as a lineman, traveling throughout the United States, with some of his fondest memories made during his time in Alaska. After returning home to Leesville, he became a successful businessman, owning and operating several ventures including The Golden Nugget, Shakey’s Pizza, Frank’s Mobile Home Sales and Moving, and Frank’s Bail Bonds. He also dedicated ten years of service to the Leesville Housing Authority and worked as a government contractor.
A devoted Christian, Frank was a faithful member of First United Pentecostal Church, where he served as an usher and supported various ministries. His faith guided his life, and his generosity extended into the community through his support of numerous charitable organizations.
Frank was a proud member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, the Masonic Lodge, and the Shriners for more than 50 years. He believed strongly in the values these organizations represented and enjoyed sharing their principles with others whenever he had the opportunity.
Frank found joy in simple pleasures—feeding wildlife, sitting outdoors with a cup of coffee and good company, fixing anything that was broken (confident it could be repaired within the hour), and repurposing items he believed might be useful someday, no matter how far in the future. He had a passion for collecting and restoring antique cars, but his greatest love was aviation. Frank loved airplanes, and above all, he loved to fly.
Frank took his final flight peacefully on January 28, 2026, at his home, surrounded by family. He was 86 years old.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents Matthew Stephens and Emily Johnson Stephens, brothers Earl and Charlie Stephens, sisters Viola Land, Frances Mcintyre, and Hazel Crane, and great granddaughter Lakelynn Merriman.
He is survived by his loving wife Barbara; Children: Bobby Stephens (Kimberly) of Camano Island, Washington, Jimmy Stephens (Judy) of Huntsville, TX, Tracy Stephens Winkley of Deridder, LA, Stefanie Stephens Cortes of Conroe, TX, Jeannie Stephens Bushnell of Deridder, LA; Grandchildren: Austin Stephens, Shea Stephens, Jordan Stephens, Rachel Stephens-Stedum, Marissa Stephens-Cortez, Joshua Stephens, Taylor Greenhouse (Daniel), Skyler Merriman (Ashley), Gavin Cortes, Wyatt Winkley, George Winkley IV, Ashton Harris (Tegan), Emily Stephens, Bailey Bushnell; 12 great-grandkids and a host of nieces and nephews.
Service Information
Visitation will be January 31, 2026, from 4pm to 6pm at Labby Funeral Home.
Visitation will be February 1st at 1pm until the time of service.
Services will be held at First United Pentecostal Church at 2pm.
Burial to follow at Leesville Cemetery
Memorial Donations
In lieu of Flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Shriners Children Hospital.
Pallbearers
Skyler Merriman, Gavin Cortes, George Winkley IV, Wyatt Winkley, Ashton Harris, James Smith
Honorary Pallbearers
Kyler Bailey, Austin Stephens, Darrell Woofter, Nathan Mawae, Cody Wheeler
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