Bishop David Douglas Stephens

David Douglas Stephens, born on June 29, 1949, in Lansing, Michigan, was the beloved son of Douglas Ray and Gloria Eleanor Stephens. His maternal grandparents, Herbert and Eleanor Starr, also held a special place in his heart.
David graduated from Everett High School in Lansing, Michigan, in 1967. He attended Michigan State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in social work. His spiritual journey was profoundly influenced by his grandfather, who pastored the Eastside Apostolic Tabernacle at 601 South Francis Street. At the remarkable age of 22, David took on the pastorship of this assembly in 1971, continuing his family's legacy of faith and service.
In June 1973, David married Kathryn Roberts at the Bridge Street Church in Grand Ledge, Michigan, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership grounded in love and devotion. They were married for 51 years. Kathryn holds a bachelor's degree in piano from Michigan State University. She played the keyboard and directed a choir for Life Christian Church for over 40 years.
The couple embarked on numerous ventures to serve their community. In 1976, David oversaw the relocation of their church from Francis Street to a new building on Jolly Road. Their family grew with the birth of their sons: Nathanael Mark in March 1979 and David James in October 1980.
Kathryn played a pivotal role in their shared mission. In 1990, she founded the nonprofit daycare Kidsville on Jolly Road. In 1982, David started a Christian school, serving as its principal for
several years, until Michael Mckinney took over that position. The school initially operated at the Jolly Road location and relocated to Eaton Rapids Road prior to the construction of the new
sanctuary in 1993 at 2560 Eaton Rapids Road.
David's ministry was bolstered by the unwavering support of many dedicated individuals. Jon and Judy Petoskey, Philip and Patricia Ewing, and John and Bernice Colegrove contributed significantly to the church's activities and community outreach. Sandra Stepp, who served as the church secretary from 1979 to 1996, provided invaluable assistance in the church's administration.
In 2007, David took on the additional responsibility of pastoring Liberty Church during a transitional period, with assistance from James Roberts. He led both Liberty Church and Life Christian Church simultaneously for 12 years. One significant milestone during his tenure was the joyous burning of the mortgage for Life Christian Church on September 16, 2007.
David Douglas Stephens passed away on July 11, 2024, in Lansing, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas Ray and Gloria Eleanor Stephens, and his baby daughter, Valerie Lynn Stephens. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn Stephens; his sons, Nathanael Mark Stephens and David James Stephens (and his wife, Alani Stephens); his siblings, Daniel N. (Deborah) Stephens, Robert S. (Elaine) Stephens, and Carla S. Compton; and his two grandchildren, Caleb H. Stephens and Charity K. Stephens. His life was a testament to unwavering faith, selfless service, and profound community impact. He will be remembered for his steadfast commitment to his congregation, his inspirational leadership, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind in the hearts of all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, July 16, 2024, 11:00 am at Liberty Church in Grand Ledge with Pastor Robert R. Fisher, officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 6-8:00 pm with a time of sharing memories from 6-7:00 pm at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge and Tuesday at the church from 10-11:00 am. Memorial contributions may be given to Life Christian Church, 2560 Eaton Rapids Road, Lansing, Michigan 48911 (https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=8319590e-74b8-4d9c-9a3e-24018ec5f7f7&context=modal) or Liberty Church, 12745 Georgia Avenue, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837(https://app.easytithe.com/app/giving/libertyupc). Share your memories and condolences online at www.holihanatkin.com.