Travis Carl Stephens: Clarendon

1985 – 2026

    I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8

     On Wednesday, Aug. 5, God called Travis Carl Stephens of Clarendon home to rest at the age of 41.

     Travis was born June 8, 1985, the only child of Mark Bradley Stephens and Sheri Diane Ward Stephens. He was born and passed at Columbus Regional Healthcare, Whiteville. He resided in the Bethel Community most of his life from the time his parents brought him home from the hospital as an infant until he returned to that same location to depart to his eternal home.

     Travis was predeceased by his parents who passed away about six months apart when he was 31 years old. During that time, he was recovering from major surgeries. He was transported to New Hanover Hospital by a dear friend in order to authorize the removal of his father from of life support. A few months later, he faced life in his home alone after his mother experienced heart failure.

     Travis was also predeceased by a special cousin, John Ward, who was a tremendous inspiration to him during his life. John instilled the love of film and photography in Travis. This avocation evolved into a great source of strength during his ten years of physical disability. He shared years of empathy with John, who was battling his own severe health crisis. Travis had wished he could have traded his extra time on earth to his dear cousin, but was left to continue on another two years plus after John began his new life in Heaven.

     A faithful member of Bethel Methodist Church, Travis was baptized and joined the church on Aug. 4, 2024. Much of his earlier life was lived outside the church but he came to know God and learn of the blessings of Jesus under the tutelage of Rev. Gary Clore.

     We know Travis’s body is now healed and his soul is at peace. His presence will be missed by his church family at worship service, Sunday School, and Bible Study.

     Travis was a talented visual artist. He loved to draw and create personal crafts for his family and friends. He was a movie aficionado who could talk for hours about plots and characters. In his final year he had learned to use A.I. as a new medium for his creativity.

     Travis is survived by two loving Great Aunts, Nell Long Buffkin of Tabor City and Gayle Long Ward (David) of Wilmington; many cousins, and dear friends. He is also survived by the love of his life, Bella, a beautiful healthy American Pit Bull rescue who took refuge at his home several years ago. Travis had mentioned how he could not bear the pain of outliving Bella. He was spared that deep heartache. She continued to love and comfort him throughout his life.

     Memorials may be made to Bethel Methodist Church whose members kindly supported him during his illness. Not only did they provide meals and a ramp for him, they made room for Travis to be a part of their team helping out at the chicken dinner events. When Travis had to go to the hospital, Pastor Gary would often be there before the family.

     A Celebration of Life for Travis is planned for 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at Bethel Methodist Church, 2733 M.M. Ray Road, Clarendon.

     Travis will be interred at a later date in Bethel Cemetery on M.M. Ray Road.

     Sign a guest register here.