88R33261 BPG-D
By: Hughes S.R. No. 698
R E S O L U T I O N
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 88th Texas 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.