Mr. Bernard Dean Stephenson, age 83, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at his residence.
He was born on May 2, 1943, in Crockett County, TN to the late William Edward Stephenson and Ruth Jones Stephenson.

Bernard was an active member of Mission Church in Martin, TN, and worked as a production worker at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in Union City, TN. He served as a Minister for 25 years at God's Chapel Church on Haygood Road in Martin, TN, where he was the founder, establishing the first non-denominational church in Weakley County. He later donated the property to the Beulah Baptist Association, where it became known as The Cowboy Church, which continues to thrive to this day.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Joyce Copeland Stephenson of Martin, TN; one son, Michael (Terri) Stephenson of Martin, TN; one grandson, Luke Michael Stephenson of Martin, TN; two sisters, Brenda Faye Brundige of Martin, TN and Dianne Shanklin of Dresden, TN; one brother, Thomas Stephenson of Dresden, TN.

In addition to his parents, Bernard is preceded in death by one sister, Linda Stephenson; and one brother, Gaylon Stephenson.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, beginning at 11:00 am until the hour service in our funeral chapel.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, July 31, 2026, in our funeral chapel.
Rev. Jack Dilday and Rev. Guy Revell will officiate.
Burial to follow in Eastside Cemetery.

Murphy Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 731-587-3121