Paul F Stevens

Obituary
BROTHER PAUL F. STEVENS
A man of honor; A man of faith; a man of his word 

A MAN OF HONOR Paul didn’t just grow into that title; he was shaped for it. 

From a young age, Paul learned what it meant to be disciplined, respectful, and grounded. His character was formed in the warmth of a humble home, where love was abundant, and faith was a foundation. He was born in Gadsden, Alabama, to the late Mr. Earl D. and Rena M. Stevens, two strong, God-fearing parents who instilled in him the values that would guide his entire life.

The host of family members who have welcomed Paul Stevens to his heavenly home include his parents, Earl D. & Rena M. Stevens; siblings, Lemmy Malone, Chester Malone, and Rena Smith; and grandchildren, Ryan Foster and Tegan Stevens.

Even as a child, Paul’s parents knew there was something special about him—a calmness of spirit, a maturity beyond his years, and a heart that seemed to understand the world with quiet wisdom. The special light continued to shine as he grew throughout the years. Paul excelled academically and personally throughout his grade school years. He graduated with pride from Carber
High School in Gadsden, Alabama. The work ethic his father instilled in him had taken deep root. Paul believed in earning his way, standing on his own two feet, and honoring the sacrifices of those who came before him. Inspired by his father’s example of service and responsibility, Paul made the decision to follow in his footsteps—not into the navy as his father had done, but into the
United States Army. Paul proudly enlisted and served with honor for years; his military occupational specialty was 92g- culinary specialist, and he nourished and supported his fellow soldier’s with care, consistency, and pride. His time in the army sharpened his discipline, strengthened his character, and deepened his commitment to service. He completed his military service with an honorable discharge, returning home with the same quiet pride he carried into battle. Paul didn’t stop there. He continued pursuing his goals with determination and focus, always striving for more—not just for himself, but also his future family. He enrolled in college and went on to earn his associate’s degree in accounting, expanding both his knowledge and his opportunities. On February 12, 1971, Paul married the love of his life, Annita d. stevens. Their union was built on faith, deep respect, and true partnership. Together, they created a home filled with love and strength, and stability. Their love was blessed with two children, their first-born son, Paul Stevens, Jr., in 1972, and their daughter Takisha M. Foster, in 1975. Paul took great pride in being a husband and father—always present, always dependable, and always leading by example. Professionally, Paul committed himself to a career of service, working faithfully for the state of Alabama for 33 years. He served at the disability Determination services office in Birmingham, Alabama, where he worked with integrity, precision, and compassion. Paul made a real difference in the lives of individuals and families navigating difficult times—offering not just assessments, but dignity and care. Even outside of the workplace, Paul’s spirit of service never stopped. A gifted pianist, he shared his talents across cities and states, using music as ministry.

He was known for playing with soul and purpose—from gospel programs to church services, revivals and celebrations but, no matter where his music took him during the week, every Sunday morning you would count on him to playing at his home church in west Blocton, Alabama, lifting up praise through every note and chord.

A MAN OF FAITH—PAUL WALKED WITH THE LORD, NOT ON JUST SUNDAY, BUT EVERY DAY OF HIS LIFE.

He didn’t just wear his faith for show; it was woven into the fabric of his life. Paul walked humbly with God, trusted him fully, and raised his family on a firm foundation. His prayers were quiet but powerful, his service to others sincere. His life was a testimony—not in words but actions. He trusted God through every season and taught his family to do the same.

A man of his word, Paul’s greatest promises were lived out in his role as a husband, father, and grandfather.

For 53 years, he stood faithfully by the side of his beloved wife, Annita D. Stevens, honoring their vows they made in 1971 with steadfast love and devotion. Paul took great pride in the life they took together, raising their children, Paul Stevens, Jr., Allison Trammell and Takisha M. Foster with discipling wisdom and unconditional love. He continued to pour the same love as his heart expanded by becoming a grandfather to his grandchildren, Erin Myriclle (Jean-Marc Ware), Emily Giselle, and Ethan Joaquin showing up for them just as he had done for his own children. Paul was the leader of his home, a protector, a provider, and a spiritual example. He took very seriously the assignment God gave him while on this Earth, and he fulfilled it with excellence, humility, and unwavering purpose.

The word of God declares in Matthew 25:23, “Well done, thy good and faithful servant.” Paul stevens exchanged time for eternity on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. While his body may have transitioned but his spirit will live on through the many works he completed. Paul was more than the roles he held—he was the steady foundation beneath them all. A faithful husband, loving father, proud grandfather, veteran, servant, and man of GOD, he lived a life of purpose, grace, and quiet strength. He did not seek recognition but left a lasting remark on every life he touched.
He leaves to cherish his memories: devoted wife, Annita D. Stevens; his children, Paul Stevens, Jr., Takisha M. Foster, Allison Trammell; his beloved grandchildren, Erin Myriclle (Jean Marc Ware), Emily Giselle, and Ethan Joaquin; great-grandchildren, Kaylee Alexandria, Elias Alexander, Emerson Jean, Ezariah Marc, Evelyn Grace; uncle, Houston Byers (Dorthy Byers);
mother-in-law, Elveta Parker; and sister-in-law, Lillian Malone. Brother Paul’s love will continue to flow to and through all his remaining special friends and family. He leaves behind a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and many dear friends. Thank you to the VA angels' caregivers, enhabit home health, and Riverview medical center for helping with brother Paul’s care.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

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