Mr. Robert "Bob" Stephens, Jr., 67, of 1308 Newton St. Shelby, NC passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Dayton, OH on October 9, 1952 to the late Ruby Henry Hoard and Robert Laurance Stephens, Sr.

Bob was a 1971 graduate of Nettie Lee Roth High School in Dayton, Ohio. He obtained an Associate's Degree from Cleveland Community College and studied at Gardner Webb University. He encouraged youth to pursue their passions through education. Bob was an amazing mentor and educator to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Bob was able to utilize his love of music to serve God as a record producer, songwriter, singer, musician, choir director, vocal coach, audio engineer, and music teacher. Many people were blessed to experience his God given talent as he worshiped through music. His musical talent lead him to travel the world sharing his unique style. He played at Walt Disney World with Reggie Saddler and Janice Barnette and traveled to Spain with Thomas Spann and the Famous Brooklyn AllStars. He showcased his talent with the Gospel IQ's of Grover, NC, the GMWA Workshop Chapter with Ted Martin of Charlotte, NC, John P. Kee & Choir of Charlotte, NC, Japan Mass Choir produced by Jett Edwards and Jenna of Tokyo, Japan, various plays, gospel greats and many other musical groups. He also appeared in the movie "Having Our Say: The Delaney Sisters' First 100 Years" produced by Camille Cosby. These are just a few of the accolades for Bob. He could often be seen at any church service making his way to the piano or organ whether invited or inclined.

In addition to his parents and grandparents, he was preceded in death by a son, Anthony Gidney, brother-in-law, Marvin Brunson, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Oscar T. Gidney and Ruth L. Gidney, his uncle Leon Holt and aunt "Mama" Doris Holt and a host of other beloved family members.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife of 34 years, Janie Gidney Stephens and a son Donnie Gidney (Brenda) of Shelby, NC, his sister, Anita Brunson and brother Apostle Ronald Hoard (Henrietta) of Columbus, OH, and James Holman who was reared in the home and God brother Marvin Lattimore of Dayton, OH , one granddaughter, Martika Gidney of Charlotte, NC. One brother-in-law Earl Gidney, Sr. (Evelyn) of Spindale, NC and three sister-in-laws Cynthia Gidney London (Paul), Theresa Gidney Proctor, and Dobbie Gidney all of Shelby, NC. Bob saw all his many beautiful nieces and smart nephews as special whether they where related by blood or through love, they were all "THE BEST ONE."

Psalm 34 :14 Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and purse it.

Romans 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

The funeral service for Mr. Stephens will be private. The service will be live-streamed on Facebook starting at 12:45 PM. Mr. Stephens can be viewed on Thursday, September 3, 2020, at First Baptist Church of Lawndale from 11:00 AM until 12:30 PM. The family will receive friends from 12:30 PM until 1:00 PM. Burial will take place at Sunset Cemetery. Condolences can be expressed online at www.enloemortuary.com. Enloe Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements.