Edward N. Stephens, Sr.

Edward N. “Lige” Stephens, Sr., 88 of Meridian, passed away the afternoon of Tuesday, May 27th, at Ochsner Rush Foundation Hospital.

Edward was born to Burton Alex and Tressie (Todd) Stephens on September 1, 1936, in Meridian. After high school, Edward attended the University of Southern Mississippi, graduating as a Certified Public Accountant in 1958. He married the love of his life, Margie Morton, in June of 1957. They remained happily married for 56 years until her passing in 2013.

Edward will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and faithful friend. He loved his Lord, singing his favorite hymns, and simply enjoying life. He was musically talented, having played the tuba for the USM Band, Pride of Mississippi, as well as being known for his beautiful singing voice. He served as Music Director and Song Leader at East End Methodist Church for most of his life until their closing. He later served as Song Leader at Prospect Methodist Church for many years until his health would no longer allow him to do so.

Edward was a Master Mason as well as a member of the Hamasa Shriners of Meridian for many years. Fishing was a favorite pastime for him, especially when family joined in. He enjoyed watching his Southern sports, rooting for both the football and baseball teams. In most recent days, he would be found putting puzzles together, playing dominoes with his friends at the nursing home, or watching his favorite “black and white” Western movies on television. Edward will be deeply missed; however, his family knows he is resting with Jesus and singing in Heaven’s choir.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Burton and Tressie Stephens, and his brother, Burton Jerome Stephens.

He is survived by his sons, Edward “Steve” Stephens, Jr. (Lynn) and Mark Stephens (Teresa); his daughter, Margie Elizabeth “Beth” Stephens; his grandchildren, Cory Stephens (Krissy), Ryan Stephens, Colton Stephens, and Landon Stephens; his great-grandchildren, Brayden and Emma Stephens; along with his many beloved friends.

Visitation for Edward will be held on Saturday, May 31st, from 11am-12pm, at Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes-North. Funeral Services will begin in the chapel at 12pm with Rev. Billy Goodwin officiating the service. Burial will take place in the Meridian Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests for donations to be made in Edward’s honor to the Shriners Children’s Hospital either online at www.shrinerschildrens.org , by phone at 318-226-4272, or by mail to: Shriners Children’s Shreveport, Office of Philanthropy, 3100 Samford Avenue, Shreveport, LA 71103.

The staff of Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes-North is grateful for the opportunity to honor Edward’s life and memory and to serve his loving family during this time.