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BORN
1931
DIED
2020
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Thomas Stephens Obituary
1931 - 2020
Thomas M. Stephens, ED.D., 89, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on June 18, 2020. He was born in Youngstown, Ohio, a son of Thomas Stephens and Marina (Hanna) Stephens, and is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Evelyn (Kleshock) Stephens. A graduate of Youngstown's East High School, Dr. Stephens earned a bachelor's degree from Youngstown College (now Youngstown State University), a master's degree from Kent State University, and a doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh. He served briefly in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. A strong and unwavering advocate for public schools, Dr. Stephens began his career as a classroom teacher in Warren, Ohio. He served in many capacities, including school psychologist, licensed clinical psychologist, Ohio Department of Education director, university professor and associate dean, and upon retirement from the Ohio State University, professor emeritus. He authored 16 textbooks and over 100 related research and professional journal articles. His parents pre-deceased him, as did his sisters Amelia Latessa and Rose Ann Richmond, his brother John J. Stephens and two nephews Dr. John J. Stephens Jr. and Thomas Stephens. In addition to his wife Evelyn, he is survived by their surrogate daughter, Dr. Deborah Telfer; nephews and their spouses, Dr. Edward Latessa (Sally) of Blue Ash, OH, Nicholas Stephens (Lisa) of Bronxville, NY, Lee Richmond of Herndon, VA; and a niece, Denise Dimoff of Youngstown. He also leaves numerous other relatives, colleagues, and friends. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Donations may be made to Ohio Health Home Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST CHAPEL. To share memories or condolences, please visit www.schoedinger.com.
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Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Stephens
Sponsored by The Columbus Dispatch.
Robert Decatur
June 25, 2020
Dr. Stephens was an amazing man who touched many lives. He undoubtedly left his mark on society. Evelyn, please take comfort in knowing that you are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Charity Martin-King
June 22, 2020
Dr. Thomas Stephens was a dedicated advocate of education and human rights. I celebrate Dr. Thomas' legacy and am grateful for his life's journey. Thank you Dr. Stephens for your contributions to gifted youth! I am humbled and will be forever mindful of the many people you have touched and the love you leave behind. I will cherish my moments in Essex and I appreciate your impact on my life and career. To the family of Dr. Stephens, he will be sorely missed and thank you for sharing this beloved spirit with all of us. God bless each of you.
Timothy E Heron
June 22, 2020
Evelyn,
Marge's heart and mine go out to you on the Tom's passing. I first met Tom in the Spring of 1976 during my on-campus interview for an assistant professor position at Ohio State. The 30 minute session that I had with Tom changed my life. I'm not entirely sure what he saw in me, but luckily it turned into a 28-year career that was rich beyond measure. I trust that in the coming days you'll be comforted by the fact that Tom changed so many lives through his personal and professional interactions. He was a wonderful teacher, mentor, and administrator. I shall not forget him for as long as I live.
Tim Heron
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Dr. Patricia Farrenkopf
June 21, 2020
We just graduated Martin W. Essex School for the Gifted high school students. It was online for the first time in 44 years, but we dedicated the graduation to Dr. Thomas Stephens. He was a huge part of the inception of this opportunity in 1976 when the school was known as "The Bicentennial School". He had a huge impact on me as en educator. My husband Jim and I send our love to Evelyn and his family. His life will be celebrated in so many ways, and I am proud to be a part of that tribute.
Allison Latessa
June 20, 2020
My Uncle Tom was one of the kindest people I have ever met. His love for education and social justice not only made my father who he is today, but also myself and so many others. We will miss you Uncle Tom
Fred Wolfr
June 19, 2020
A wonderful leader and advocate for public education and a mentor to many outstanding educators. May he rest in peace knowing that he impacted the lives of many.
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