Roger Stephon

Roger Stephon Ft. Washington, MD Roger Stephon of Ft. Washington, MD (formerly of Okemos, MI and Tallahassee, FL) died after a brief illness on February 14, 2013. Born in Detroit, 1937 to George and Mildred (Pazik) Stephon, Roger lived a life of service, first to his country in the Navy, then to children as an educator in the Livonia Public Schools. Much of his career was spent as an advocate for teacher's rights and quality education. He worked tirelessly on the local level for the Lansing Schools Education Association, the state level for the Michigan and Florida Education Associations, internationally for the Overseas Education Association, and finally for teachers throughout the U.S. through the National Education Association. Throughout his life he was involved in numerous causes and organizations that fought for human and civil rights for all people, including passage of the ERA, working to end violence against children, advocating for full LGBT rights and advocacy for education for girls throughout the world. He also recognized the importance of working within his local community and supported local farmers and organic agriculture through his active participation and promotion of CSA organizations and by dedicating himself to volunteering for those who had less and were in need, especially through the Oxon Hill Food Pantry. Roger is survived by his wife, Sandra and stepson Michael (Anne) Delp, his four children: Chris (Debbie) Stephon, Sue Merritt, Vicki Walker, Doug (Izumi) Stephon, and their mother Barbara, as well as six grandchildren whom he adored. His family carries on his legacy of advocacy, education and service to others, and happily shares his keen intellect, quick wit, and a love for both children and animals. We are proud to say he was a fighter until the end. Family and friends are invited to Roger's Life Celebration on Wednesday, Feb. 20th from 3p.m. until the memorial service at 4p.m. at the George P. Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill MD. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Oxon Hill Food Pantry, c/o Interfaith Community Action Council, P.O. Box 0934, Temple Hills, MD 20757-0934. Online Guestbook available at: www.kalasfuneralhomes.com