Ishmael Stephens, age 93, a resident of Greenfield, passed away on Monday morning, Sept. 26, 2011, at his residence. He was born on June 14, 1918, in Hartwell, Ind., to the late Charles and Mayzie (Davis) Stephens.
Mr. Stephens served in the U.S. Army, where he received the Purple Heart for his injuries received in the Battle of The Bulge. He worked as a farmer, coal miner and a shipyard hand. He also worked for Crane Naval Weapons Depot and retired from Ford Motor Company. He was a member of the UAW, Jasper VFW and the American Legion Post of Winslow, Ind. Ishmael was a story teller, who loved his family and spending time with them and watching his grandchildren compete in sports. He loved fishing, hunting, camping, and gardening.
He is survived by his son, Richard (Phyllis) Stephens of Greenfield; granddaughter, Felicia (Jeff) Frazier of Greenfield; grandson, Richard Stephens of Greenfield; great grandchildren, Sami Frazier, Michael (Chrissy) Frazier, Mathew Frazier, Cory Stephens, Jesse Stephens; great-great-grandchild, Haven Frazier; and several nieces and nephews including, Pat Hollan, Bruce Kifer and Brenda Stone.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Opha M. (Price) Stephens; and sister, Cletis Thomas.
Friends may call from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30, 2011, at Stillinger Family Funeral Home, Pasco Chapel of Greenfield. Graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011, at Park Cemetery in Greenfield, with military graveside rites provided by the Greenfield Veteran Honor Guard.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Paralyzed Veterans of America, 801 Eighteenth Street, NW Washington, DC 20006-3517.
Online condolences may be shared at www.stillingerfamilyfuneralhome.com
