Martin Stephens

Martin enjoyed life. He was a huge family man. You could always count on him to be with his family and extend families. I always felt a joy being around him. He loved seeing everyone in Georgia and keeping in touch with his cousins!!

Martin was six years older than me and a first cousin of mine who came and lived with my family for two years and finished high school in Cuthbert, GA. We shared a room upstairs and I was always scared of being upstairs by myself at night when Martin was out with friends or on a date. I would lie awake listening out for any spooks and when I heard someone coming up the stairs I would say, "Martin, is that you?", and I was always so relieved when he answered "Yes, it's me." He was always there for me.

I had the privilege of working with and under the supervision of Major Stephens for over 20 years, when he retired. He was always someone you could count on and a big part of the history of the Marion County Sheriff's Office

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. My deepest sympathy, love and prayers to the family.

One of my favorite memories was getting to have dinner with you guys while Beth, Matt, and I were being taken care of by Grammy (Mrs dirienzo) and he did indeed mention how he guarded Elvis Presley, along with reminding me that I´d get smile lines if I kept laughing so much !! Along with the countless candy at church and getting to witness the servants heart that was evident in him