Denis Roy Stephens

Denis Roy Stephens, 55 of Rutledge passed away suddenly on Friday, December 12, 2025.  Denis was the son of the late, Frank and Bonnie Ballard Stephens.  He was born in Red Bluff, CA on April 20, 1970.  Later, he returned to Georgia and graduated from Morgan County High School in 1989.  Following high school, Denis worked as an EMT and then went on to graduate from the Police Academy.  He worked as an officer for several years before teaching himself to drive a tractor trailer.  He earned his commercial driver's license and worked as an “over the road” driver until his health took him off the road.  Denis was a volunteer firefighter for the Rutledge Fire Department.  He enjoyed camping and boating and fishing Lake Oconee.  He was a devoted husband and father and loved his family dearly.

Denis Stephens is survived by his wife, Tara Stephens and children, Michael Stephens (Layla), Alex Stephens, Ryan Stephens and Sean Stovall.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Bonnie Stephens and a brother, Kenny Stephens.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025 at 2 pm at Centennial Baptist Church.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Centennial Baptist Church Community Fund, earmarked “Above and Beyond”.  Centennial Church and the Rutledge community have been instrumental in helping Denis remain independent after the loss of his legs.

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