Russell Aubrey Stephens

Russell Aubrey Stephens, age 88, passed away on January 25, 2015 after a lengthy and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer at his beloved ranch in Denison, Texas surrounded by his loved ones. Born November 14, 1926 in Crosby County, Texas to Lula and Haskell Stephens. After graduation from Ralls High School in 1944 he served in the Navy from 1945 - 46 aboard the USS Haraden. Upon his return, he entered Texas Tech University and graduated in 1951 with a BS in Petroleum Geology. While at Tech he was a member of the Wrangler fraternity and enjoyed relationships with his "brothers" throughout his life. After graduation he moved to Midland, Texas where he worked as a geologist for El Paso Natural Gas and El Paso Products Company for 18 years, eventually becoming the Eastern Division Manager. In 1970, he moved his family to Dallas, Texas, and became the President of Universal Resources Corporation, a company he co-founded and later helped take public. Following his career at URC, he continued to be involved in the oil & gas industry for many years as independent oilman. He also enjoyed the sport of horse racing and for many years bred both quarter horses and thoroughbreds at his ranch. Russell was a member of and served as an officer in numerous scientific and industry organizations throughout his career. He was also a member of the Dallas Petroleum Club, Bent Tree Country Club, and Preston Trails Golf Club. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Cecil Stephens and Leonard Stephens, as well as his nephew, Nick Stephens. He is survived by his daughter, Kelly Stephens Lancaster of San Antonio, Texas; son John Russell Stephens and wife Connie of Dallas, Texas; and daughter Elizabeth Stephens James and husband Ed of Houston, Texas and their mother, Barbara Stephens of San Antonio, Texas. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren Caroline, Sarah, and Walker Lancaster; Holt, Coleman, and Carson Stephens; and Harrison, Phillip, and William James; and his sister Jo Ann Parks of White Oak, Texas and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition, he is survived by his long time companion, Marylin Nichols of Round Rock, Texas who took loving care of him during his illness, and her daughter Susan Harris and husband Craig and their children John, Matthew and Michael; and her son John Nichols. A private family memorial service is planned at his ranch at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Texas Tech Foundation for the Stephens Exploration Inc. Geology Endowed Scholarship honoring Russell A. Stephens by mail to Texas Tech University, College of Arts & Sciences Development, Box 41034, Lubbock, TX 79409 or to the cancer charity of your choice.