Anthony “Tony” Stephens of Somerset, KY departed this life on Friday, December 11th, 2025, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Tony was 55 years old.
Tony was born in Whitley City, KY on July 31, 1970. He was a faithful member of Jordan Baptist Church, and he loved his church family. His faith shaped every part of his life. He loved the Lord deeply and lived his life guided by grace, humility and love for others.
Tony is preceded in death by his foster parents, J.C. Barnes and Laura Barnes, his brother Jimmy Stephens and his father-in-law Roger Dutilly.
Tony leaves behind to cherish his memory, his beloved wife Melissa who he married May 16th,1992. His son’s Michael A. Stephens of Lexington, Patrick Stephens, Aaron Stephens, Coltyn Stephens and Curtis Back all of Somerset and his daughters Lily Stephens and Addalyn Stephens. His grandchildren Logan, Emmalee, MJ and Sierra. His brothers Michael (Carrie) Stephens, Freddie (Jamie) Stephens, Danny (Melissa) Brown, Glendon Kidd, and Mickey Kidd. His in-laws Porter (Patty) Morrow (close as a father and mother) Clarice Morrow (close as a little sister) Barbara Dutilly (close as a mother) Shane (Angela) Morrow (close as a brother and sister) and baby Michael Ryan. Along with numerous nieces, nephews foster siblings, extended family and friends.
Tony worked as a cottage manager at Oakwood for 10 years, a role he took great pride in. Along with his wife Melissa, they opened their home to over 50 foster children. His love extended far beyond his own home to his neighbors and friends. Tony was a lifelong fan of the Tennessee vols even when he was outnumbered his vols loyalty never wavered. He loved teasing the pastor’s wife whenever his team beat the Kentucky wildcats. He practiced martial arts when he was younger and always enjoyed playing golf.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 17th, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Jordan Baptist Church. Visitation will continue on Thursday, December 18th, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., also at the church. Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. with Bro. Billy Miller officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Burnside Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Troy Hill, Danny Brown, Michael R. Stephens, Freddie Stephens, Brian Crow, Gene Johnson, J.J. Johnson, and Patrick Stephens.
In Lieu of flowers, the family requests that expressions of sympathy be made to Saint Judes Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis Tennessee 38105.
Southern Oaks Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements for Anthony “Tony” Stephens.