William A. Stephen

William A. Stephen, lovingly known as “Joe,” and affectionately called “Joeboy” or “Joe” by those dearest to him, was born on March 9, 1953, in Kosciusko, Mississippi, to the late A.T. and Penolia Stephens. At an early age, Joe accepted Christ and became a member of New God Missionary Baptist Church, where his faith began and guided him throughout his life. 

Joe attended Northside Elementary School from first through sixth grade and later enrolled at Tipton High School. After school integration, he transferred to Kosciusko High School, where he proudly graduated. During his high school years, Joe was a standout athlete, known as one of the best middle linebackers Kosciusko had ever seen. Football was not just a sport for him but a source of pride, discipline, and lifelong memories. 

After graduating high school, Joe moved to Jackson, Mississippi, where he lived with his sister, Hattie Gamblin, and began working at the state hospital. It was in Jackson that Joe met the love of his life, his beloved “Bane,” Bernadine Smith. The two were united in marriage on November 17, 1974, and made their home in Clinton, Mississippi. On April 10, 1975, their family grew with the birth of their twin sons, Eric and Derrick. 

In 1978, Joe moved his family to Chicago, Illinois, where he began working at Brach’s Candy Company. On September 26, 1985, Joe and Bernadine welcomed their youngest son, Jeremy Stephen, completing their family. Joe was a devoted provider and gained many skills through years of hard work across various positions. In 1988, he left Brach’s and began working at World Colors, where Bernadine later joined him. Together, they continued their journey at Streamlight, working side by side as partners in both life and labor. 

For over 15 years, Joe worked at Harris Icehouse, where he built lasting friendships and was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, great sense of humor, and love for telling jokes that could light up any room. 

Joe deeply loved his roots and enjoyed visiting his hometown of Kosciusko, Mississippi, often traveling back each year to where it all started. He also loved hosting barbecues, bringing everyone together, laughing, and reminding his family of what mattered most. Joe often said, “Family is important, and we have to stick together,” and he lived those words every day. 

Though work was important to him, Joe’s greatest passion was his family. He loved deeply and expressed it often, famously saying, “You know I love you, right? I’m serious.” Those words, along with his laughter and warmth, will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him best. 

He was preceded in death by his son, Derrick Stephens, and his sister, Reba Winford, whom he loved dearly and carried in his heart always. 

Joe leaves cherished memories with his devoted wife, Bernadine Stephen, and his loving family. He is survived by his sons Eric Stephen and Jeremy Stephen. Through his son Eric Stephen, Joe was blessed with grandchildren Jasmine Stephen, Ashaad, Makhiya, Eryn and Ava and one great-grandson, Jayden Stephen. His son, Derrick Stephen, who preceded him in death, leaves a lasting legacy through his children, Dereonna Stephen and Breonna Phillis, and his great-grandchildren, Luna Patterson, De-Majae Wright and Christian Valentine. Through his son Jeremy Stephen, Joe was blessed with grandchildren Harper and Ace Stephen. 

Joe also leaves behind his loving siblings: his sisters, Hattie Gamblin (Samuel) and Jacqueline Brocks (Ernest); and his brothers, Lincoln (Ludie), Harvey, Ivery, Quincy (Portia) and Don; along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends who will continue to honor his memory. 

William “Joeboy” Stephen will be remembered for his strength, faith, humor, love of family, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear. His life was one of hard work, laughter, tradition, and togetherness, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him