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
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on May 27, 2023, by a
rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate