Gilbert T. Stephenson

Gilbert Thomas Stephenson, formerly of Cleveland and currently resided in Houston, TX, passed from this life on July 1, 2010 at 12 noon. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

Mr. Stephenson was born in Bradley county to the late Stella M. Fields Stephenson and Arthur Stephenson on November 27, 1931. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and son Garry Lynn Stephenson. He is survived by his wife of 57 years JoeAnn Self Stephenson, daughter and son-in-law Karlotta and Wes Brown, grandson Wesley Brown all of Houston, TX, sister Mrs. Ruby Randall of Chickamauga, GA, granddaughters Bess and BJ Stephenson, and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Stephenson grew up in Bradley County and began his military career with the TN National Guard serving in the reserves and going on to a career in the U.S. Army. He served in the Korean War and continued his service until his retirement from the Army in 1975. While in the military he served for 5 years as the U.S. Army recruiter for the Bradley County area. Upon his military retirement Mr. Stephenson returned to Cleveland and was employed by Chemical Bank and later Cleveland Bank & Trust, where he was the collection department manager. Mr. Stephenson also maintained a real estate license with Lewisco Auction and Realty Co. and taught at Cleveland State Community College. Gilbert was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite (past president), the Cleveland Optimist Club (past President), DAV, and American Legion. He was a member of Woodridge Baptist Church, Kingwood, TX.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Chattanooga National Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Cronan officiating. Military honors will conclude the service.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, Ill. 60601-7633.

You may send online condolences to www.grissomfh.net. For additional information, phone Grissom Funeral Home at 476-8575.