OCEAN ISLE BEACH — Henry Edward Stephens III, also known as Eddie or Snake, died at New Hanover Regional Medical center on Oct. 30, 2016.
He was born in Bladen County, North Carolina, on July 16, to Rosa Carroll Stephens and Henry Edward Stephens II. He had been living at Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, during his years of retirement but had several health issues that he fought until the very last day.
He was predeceased by his Mother Rosa Stephens, Father Henry Stephens, and brother Charlie Stephens.
Surviving siblings are Miriam Taylor (Buie) and Craig Stephens (Waka). He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews and cousins residing in Salisbury, North Carolina. He grew up in Bladen County loving to hunt and fish in his younger days. Eddie was the star football player at East Bladen High School and still to this day is known as a legend.
He worked over 20 years in the construction field as an instrumentation technician and superintendent in North Carolina.
Eddie is survived by his first wife, Cindy Grimsley, and their two children, Tanya Elsheimi and Seth Stephens, both from North Carolina. He also has a daughter, who he had been unable to find for many years, Michelle Stephens. His second wife, Kristie Pate and their daughter, Elizabeth Rose Stephens, and his beloved stepdaughter, Amber Pate.
His family will be celebrating his life by honoring his last wish to be cremated and his ashes spread in Colly Creek where he spent many happy years hunting and fishing with the Colly Creek Hunting Club.
On Nov. 19, at 2 p.m., anyone who would like to participate is invited to come to Kelly, North Carolina, to honor his memory. Please feel free to contact Cindy at bobcat1957@gmail.com for directions or any information regarding his celebration. You may also contact Tanya at 919-809-6072 for further information.
To share condolences with the family at www.coastalcremations.com.