Rudolph Stephens, Sr.

“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: Ecclesiastics 3.”

On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, Rudolph Stephens Sr.’s season here on earth ended, but his legacy lives on through his family, friends, and community. Rudolph Stephens earthly season begun on September 2, 1936, in St. Matthews, S.C. He was the oldest child of the late Effie Lou Johnson Stephens. Rudolph didn't have a formal education past third grade, but he was wise, articulate, and filled with wisdom. A man of many talents and professions, Rudolph Stephens Sr. worked at Banks Construction, the Charleston Naval Base, Flora Daniels, Georgia Pacific Lumber Company, the Pulp Wood Industry, and Lake Marion Mariner Resort. He was also a self-made business owner and a hardworking farmer.

Rudolph was married to the late Margaret Brown-Stephens for 29 years, with whom he shared an enduring bond. Together, they created a family rooted in love, unity, and spirituality. Rudolph was a pillar of strength and compassion, offering guidance and support to those around him. His love for his family and friends was unwavering, and his presence brought joy to countless lives. Rudolph's community store became a neighborhood meeting spot for those in need by often collecting funds for those experiencing medical or personal hardships. His community store became a major social hall where Saturday activities involved turkey shoots, pool tournaments, and telling fish stories. He also enjoyed the following activities watching the Eos Angeles Dodgers, WWF Wrestling, watching westerns on television, listening to blues or playing the guitar. Rudolph had a gift for creating his signature dishes, which included his famous stew chicken, pork pots and the barbecue was always a ”hit” at the community gatherings. Rudolph found love again with the late Daisy Stephens with whom he shared 14 years of marriage.

Rudolph Stephens Sr. served diligently in Greater Target A.M.E. Church prior to the declining of his health. He served as a class leader, a member of the Sons of Allen, and a trustee. His name is etched on a plaque in the foyer of Greater Target A.M.E. Church for his role in raising funds for the construction of this beautiful facility we are fellowshipping in today.  Despite having a stroke in the church's parking lot, where Goal gave hint victory over death, he continued to attend church services in his wheelchair. Brother Alton Gregory Sellers met him at the church entrance, tied his necktie, and wheeled him to his favorite spot at the front of the church every Sunday. Rudolph will be remembered when we listen to his gospel favorites, “He's Alright with Me” and “Miracle Worker” which always brought him peace and comfort.  

Rudolph "fought a good fight", in spite of his disabilities he was a force to be reckoned with in several areas of his life. At Belmont Luxury, where he attended daily, he quickly established himself as the king, a title he proudly held. His resilience and determination were evident in his numerous accolades, including being named the 2016 King of Belmont Luxury, 2018 King of Belmont First Place Runner-Up, and July's Belmont Luxury 2024 Client of the Month Recipient. 

Rudolph Stephens Sr. leaves a devoted daughter and son-in-law his caregivers, Bobby and Vernell Watson of the home and dedicated granddaughter, Margueritta (Zachary) Green of Cameron, SC.  Rudolph Stephens Sr. legacy will continue to live on through his family, who carry forward his values of kindness, determination, and generosity. He leaves to cherish many his memories are his caring children, Samuel Lee Brown of Jacksonville, Florida, Herbert Lee Robinson of Holly Hill, SC, Juanita Brown, Anthony Stephens, Rudean Spears, Altonia Stephens, Rudolph Stephens, Jr., and Brian (Angie) Stephens all of Columbia, SC. Rudolph's siblings demonstrated true agape love by traveling 1600 miles roundtrip more than three times a year to spend quality time with Rudolph, JoAnne Evans of Stamford, Connecticut, sister, and Carlisle (Mary Ann) Stephens of Bridgeport, Connecticut, Sarah Stephens (sister-in-law) of Stamford, Connecticut, 5 stepchildren, 18 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren and 14 step grandchildren. Rudolph's spirit will forever be etched in the memory of the Belmont Luxury Home Care under the leadership of Ronald Bradshaw, who served as his surrogate family from Monday to Friday. His faithful private sitters Carol Butler and La-Sita Hanzalik, who always spoiled him to the utmost with kisses and sweets!

Rudolph Stephens Sr. outlived many, but was preceded in death by his wives, Margaret Brown-Stephens and Daisy Stephens, son, Ricky Cummings, mother, EfFie Lou Stephens, stepfather Johnny Allen Blocker Stephens, great-granddaughter, Gracelyn Watson-Green, son-in-law, Tyrone Spears Sr., grandson, Aaron Brown, siblings, Helen Glenn, Earl Stephen and Ruby Mae Johnson and Clifton Stephens who joined Rudolph on December 5, 2024.

Rudolph Stephens Sr. will be deeply missed but fondly remembered. His legacy of love and resilience will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rudolph Stephens, Sr., please visit our floral store.