Don Chesley Stevens, 70, of Burton, TX, having walked alongside the Lord his entire life, a treasured Husband, Father, and Grandfather, is now at rest with Him.  He passed away all too soon on Saturday, January 22, 2022, on Butts Dairy Farm, where he lived with his wife of 44 years, Sue Ellen (Butts) Stevens, and about 20 head of cattle.

Don C. Stevens was born on May 24, 1951, in Yoakum, Texas.  He graduated from Yoakum High School in 1969 and joined the Army Reserve in 1971, gaining promotions to the rank of SP-4 (E-4).  He was Honorably Discharged just 4 months into service and pursued a position as a full-time minister.  Several years later, Sue Ellen's cousin called and told her there was a guy down in Fordtran, Texas, he wanted her to meet, to which she replied, "I'm busy". Fortunately, during one Spring Break, she visited Fordtran Church of Christ to meet Don.  Dating off and on for a couple years, they happily married in La Grange, Texas on April 9, 1977.

In years to come, Don had 3 children, lived in Palestine, Ezzell, and finally settled in Burton, Texas for over 30 years.  He conducted mission work in Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic), preached in numerous cities for multiple congregations, and gained his Master Plumber license.

In 1997, Don went on his final international mission trip and after only 5 days he heard from God, "Go home and teach others to hear me for themselves."  He changed full-time work to computer repair, beginning at Computer Source and Services in La Grange, then retiring from the Blue Bell Creameries IT Department after 19 years.  In his off-time and throughout retirement, he stayed true to his new mission field; teaching and preaching God's presence in His children.

Don's life revolved around God & Family, everything else he considered an "extra".  Some extras included a passion for Texas history, continuously caring for the family farm, a great talent for playing guitar, fiddle, and singing, and a pending publication of his book Forever Family, the cessation of a lifetime of biblical study.

The family offers many thanks to Washington County EMS, Sherriff's Department, and Constable, all who were all there within minutes of the call.  Thank you for serving the community so faithfully.  We also give special mention to Roy & Maxine Wunderlich, honorable family members through four generations. Don, and we, love you dearly.

Don's surviving family:  Amanda Donielle (Stevens) Brisco (Eldest Daughter) alongside her husband Justin Brisco & Grandchildren Raine (Robinson) Rickord (25), Elizabeth Brisco (20), Martha Brisco (18), Elodie Robinson (17), and Max Lugo (10), Samuel Berry Stevens (Favorite Son) alongside Bethany Dwyer & Grandchildren Isaac Yuna (17), Lexi Simpson (14), Ellen Stevens (6), Jackson Vick (5), Gabriella Stevens (4), Caroline Vick (4), and Chesley Stevens (1), Stacey Delane Stevens (Youngest Daughter) alongside Chase Hammett, & Grand Puppy, Bentley; Siblings, Gary (Brother) & Brenda Carol Stevens, Bobbie Lois (Sister) & Jamie Ratley, Ricci (Brother) & Janice Stevens, Allan Ray (Brother) & Stormii Stevens, and Brenda (Sister) & Elvis Johnston; Nieces & Nephews are numerous and were loved equally by Don.

Don was preceded in death by; his parents Wesley & Loyce Stevens, and Sue Ellen's parents Bill & Betty Butts.  Due to Loyce's passing many years ago, Don also was blessed with mothers Tina (deceased) & Kay during his life. Tina's children: Larry Smith, Shirley Cox, Kenny Smith, and Tina Sue Hawkins. Kay's children: Mark and James Hambright.

Due to Don's wishes of being cremated, there will be a non-burial graveside service at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, February 5, 2022 at Salem Cemetery near Hallettsville, Texas.   Immediately following will be a Celebration of Life at Hope Community Center (Hope Baptist Church) from 12:00-4:00 p.m. Lunch will be provided, bring a dessert and guitar if you wish, and dress comfortably.  Both events are open to all.

Don's ashes will be spread on the Hill at Butts Dairy Farm in May at the annual Memorial Day celebration.

A note to all: In lieu of funeral flowers , donations can be made for the "Flower Fund", which will comprise of native Texas wildflower seeds to be sown along with Don's ashes. For any additional information, contact Sam Stevens directly.

Rest with joy, Don!

Salem Cemetery: 18036 FM-531, Hallettsville, TX 77964

Hope Baptist Church: 1228 CR-413, Yoakum, TX 77995