Don Allen Stephens

Don Allen Stephens, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully in Sylva, North Carolina on Nov 22, 2025 at the age of 81. Don was a man deeply rooted in the mountains he loved and lived a life marked by loyalty, curiosity, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Born in Sylva in 1944, Don graduated from Cullowhee High School. He earned his undergraduate degree in Computer Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hil. He went on to complete his Master’s degree in Information Science at Georgia Tech. He was a proud member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.

Don’s professional career working in materials management began with Champion International along the East Coast, and later with Pilkington / LOF Glass in Laurinburg, North Carolina. He would later become the owner and CEO of Woodsouth, a role that highlighted his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.

A man of wide-ranging interests, Don found joy in watching and playing golf, reading, flying as a privately licensed pilot, and cheering on his Tar Heels. As his health declined, Don treasured the simple pleasure of sitting on his front porch in the home he built facing the mountains he loved.

Don is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 52 years, Patricia (Patty) Quillian Stephens; his daughters, Donna Stephens Manley, DVM of Charlottesville, VA, and Stacy Stephens Levy and her husband, Damon Levy, of Baton Rouge, LA; and his beloved granddaughter, Elizabeth Anne Levy, with whom he shared a special bond. He is also survived by his brother Ronald (Ron) Earl Stephens and his wife, Bonnie, of Cullowhee, along with many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his father, Don Stephens of Cullowhee; his mother, Cordelia Allen Stephens of Sylva; and his brother, Randall (Randy) Keith Stephens of Cullowhee.

Don will be remembered as a true mountain man with a booming voice, a love for his animals, a generous heart, and a deep love for his family and his Tar Heels. His support and wisdom enriched the lives of his family.

A family memorial service is planned for the Spring. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to the Friends of the Jackson County Public Library nonprofit: 536 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC 28779 https://www.sylvalibraryfriends.org/donations