Robert "Bobby" Paul Stephenson Sr.

Robert “Bobby” Paul Stephenson Sr., age 87, longtime Bessie resident, was born May 31, 1938, in Silver City, New Mexico, to Richard “Dick” and Mariana (Catalan) Stephenson, and passed away Tuesday, December 16, 2025, in Oklahoma City.

As a young child, Bobby was raised in Arizona before his family relocated to California during his teenage years, where he attended high school. His family moved frequently throughout his youth, as his father and many relatives worked as miners. Those early years helped shape Bobby’s strong work ethic and adaptability, traits he carried with him throughout his life.

On January 23, 1959, Bobby married the love of his life, Diane Correia, in Centerville, California. Their marriage of more than 66 years was built on faith, dedication, and deep love for family. Together, they shared many adventures as they made homes in McDermitt, Nevada; Battle Mountain, Nevada; and finally Bessie, Oklahoma, where they settled in 1982 and remained ever since.

Throughout his working years, Bobby held several jobs. He worked on high-line wires for a short time, but his most enjoyable and favorite career was as a truck driver. He took great pride in the open road and the independence that came with trucking, often sharing stories from his years behind the wheel.

Bobby was raised in the Church of the Nazarene and later became a devoted member of Bessie Baptist Church. He was actively involved with the Bessie Messengers and was known for his faithful presence and friendly spirit within the church community.

Bobby had a true gift for music and storytelling. He loved playing music, watching football, tending to his garden, and spending time with his family. He was well known for his quick wit, playful humor, and ability to make people laugh. Above all else, Bobby treasured his family and the time spent surrounded by those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Mariana Stephenson; two daughters, Doreen Jones and Darla Stephenson; four brothers, Frank Stephenson, Bill Stephenson, Joe Stephenson, and Richard Stephenson; six sisters, Mary Azevedo, Rosie Maples, Ann Howe, Betty Mettelton, Amy Klupka, and an infant sister, Virginia Stephenson.

Bobby is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Stephenson of the home; sons, Ramond Stephenson of Elk City and Robert Stephenson Jr. of Colorado; daughters, Darcie Rhoads of Bessie and Sean Fudge of Cordell; 13 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

A remembrance of life service will be held at 2:00 P.M., Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Bessie Baptist Church, officiated by Jerry Wilkins, under the direction of Lee Hometown Funeral Home.