Loyd Dale Stephens

Loyd Dale Stephens, 65, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, in the arms of his beloved wife and daughter, after a sudden but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Loyd was born on December 11, 1959, in El Dorado, Kansas, to Louis and Ola Mae Stephens. Not long after, the family made their home in Arlington, Texas, where Loyd’s compassion and drive to serve others quickly became evident.

A proud graduate of Sam Houston High School, Loyd stood out not only as a talented athlete and well-loved student but also as a loyal friend and advocate for the underdog. Voted for several peer honors during his school years, he carried these accolades with quiet humility, always choosing to lift others up before himself.

On September 2nd, 1983, Loyd married the love of his life, Barbara Denise Dinsmore, who often said she was the luckiest girl in the world. Together, they built a life centered on love, faith, and family, raising three children: Ben, Brandon, and Brittany. Loyd was a devoted husband and father, working tirelessly to provide, support, and nurture his family.

Beyond his own home, Loyd impacted countless young lives through his years coaching with Arlington Optimist Football and the Grand Prairie Youth Football Association. His mentorship extended far beyond the field—he was a guide, encourager, and steady presence to many.

Loyd’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, he spent 19 years in Bible Study Fellowship, loved reading scripture, and found joy singing in the church choir. His spiritual legacy is one of grace, strength, and unwavering trust in God.

To his grandchildren, Loyd was affectionately known as "B-Pop" a title he wore with immense pride and joy. His love for his family radiated in every story, lesson, and laugh he shared.

Loyd had a rare gift: he made others feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or a thoughtful conversation, he embodied true confidence—not in comparing himself to others, but in being fully himself.

Loyd Stephens will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his devoted wife, Denise Stephens, the love of his life. He is also survived by his beloved mother, Ola Mae Stephens, and his cherished sisters, Donna Stephens Vick, Sheree Beckler (Brad), and Bobbye Stephens Moreno.

Loyd’s legacy lives on through his children: Benjamin Stephens, Brandon Stephens (Jeff), and Brittany Stephens (Heather); his treasured grandchildren: Isabelle Stephens, Charlotte Stephens, Caroline Lumen, Alexandra Lumen, Kayla Neal (Makayla), and Chandler Lopez (Robert); and his five great-grandchildren, who brought him an endless and outwardly obvious joy.

He will be fondly remembered by his mother-in-law, Barbara Dinsmore; his sister-in-law, Lola Hussey (James); and extended family member, Chris Owens. Loyd also leaves behind a loving aunt, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and many dear and lifelong friends who will continue to honor his memory.

Loyd was preceded in death by his father, Louis Earl Stephens; his paternal grandparents, Gene and Octavia Stephens; his maternal grandparents, Olen and Eunice Roebuck; his father-in-law, Bobby Dinsmore; his brother-in-law, Bobby Dinsmore Jr; his nieces, Debra Anderson-Owens; and baby Lauren Hussey.

Loyd’s life was a testament to love in its purest form. He gave the world his heart, his time, and his unwavering kindness. As we say goodbye, we do so with gratitude for the love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the light he brought into many lives.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that Loyd’s love remains with us—in every kind word spoken, every act of generosity, and every memory shared. He was deeply loved, and he will be forever missed. He may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.

As we mourn his passing, we hold tight to the words of Jesus in John 14:1—“Let not your hearts be troubled.” We find peace in knowing that Loyd is now in the presence of the Lord he served so faithfully, and we carry forward his legacy by loving as he loved—completely, humbly, and without hesitation.