SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 698

In Memory

of

Marvin Stephens Jr.

WHEREAS, A life lived with joy and purpose drew to a close with the passing of Dr. Marvin Graydon Stephens Jr. of Tyler on April 10, 2023, at the age of 81; and

WHEREAS, The son of Marvin Graydon Stephens Sr. and Emma Charlotte Woods Stephens, Marvin Stephens was born in Fort Worth on April 5, 1942; he attended Texas Tech University and served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve; after graduating from Baylor Dental School and the Baylor School of Orthodontics, he established his practice in Tyler; dedicated to his patients and to his profession, he was active in numerous organizations and served in many leadership roles, including as president of the Smith County Dental Society, the Baylor Orthodontic Alumni Association, and the Southwest Component of the E. H. Angle Society of Orthodontists; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Stephens was also engaged in his community; a charter member of the Tyler Centurion Club, he was a longtime member of the Tyler Lions Club and the Order of The Rose of The Texas Rose Festival as well; a man of faith, he was a valued member of Marvin Methodist Church, serving as a youth Sunday school teacher and as an usher; and

WHEREAS, Above all, Dr. Stephens was devoted to his family; he shared a fulfilling marriage with his wife, Penny, and he took great pride in his children, Brooke, Cory, and the late Marvin Graydon Stephens III, who preceded his father in death; over the years, he attended every one of his children's games, recitals, and special events, and he enjoyed many happy hours with his family relaxing at the lake and traveling; his son Cory followed in his footsteps and joined his practice; and

WHEREAS, Although Marvin Stephens is deeply missed by those he left behind, they will forever treasure their memories of his warmth, kindness, and optimism; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Dr. Marvin Graydon Stephens Jr. and extend sincere condolences to the members of his family: to his wife, Penny Kennard Stephens; to his son, Dr. Cory Stephens; to his daughter, Brooke Marie Stephens; to his granddaughter, Marlee Blythe Stephens; to his sister, Janie Lehmann, and her husband, Dr. Jerry Lehmann; to his niece, Dr. Melissa Lehmann; and to his other relatives and friends; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Dr. Marvin Graydon Stephens Jr.

Hughes

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 27, 2023, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate