Don Stephens

Don Stephens, 74, of Dawsonville passed away Friday July 27, 2012 at his residence following a period of declining health.

Born October 13, 1937 to the late Clyde and Madge Stephens, he was a lifelong resident of Dawson County. Don was cofounder of Byrd-Stephens Building Supply and the Dawson 400 Center. He was one of organizers of First Community Bank and developed several other commercial and residential properties in the Dawson County area. He served his county in the Georgia National Guard, was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church, a trustee of Lumpkin Campground for 44 years, a 50 year member of Chestatee Lodge #102 F & AM, was a member of the York Rite and the Yaarab Shrine. He was also preceded in death by a nephew, Chris Stephens.

Surviving are his wife of 48 years, Edna Kelley Stephens, Dawsonville; son and daughter in law, Russ and Felicia Stephens, Dawsonville; brother and sister in law, Roger and Marjorie Stephens, Dawsonville; nieces, nephews employees and a host of friends and other relatives.

Funeral services will be held Monday July 30, 2012 at 11 o'clock in the Arbor at Lumpkin Campground. Rev. Eddie Herring, Rev. Gary Moore and Dr. Orin Sampson will officiate. Interment will follow in the Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Saturday from 6 until 9 and Sunday anytime until 9 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 100 Lumpkin Campground Road South, Dawsonville, GA 30534 or to Lumpkin Campground, c/o Brian Martin, 4945 Hubert Martin Road, Cumming, GA 30028.

Condolences may be expressed at www.beardenfuneralhome.com.

Bearden Funeral Home, Dawsonville, GA.