NEW PORT RICHEY, FL - Rodney C. Stephens, age 66 of New Port Richey, fl. died Thursday, March 12, 2009 of cancer.

Born February 14, 1943, the son of Fred and Kathryn Stephens, he was a graduate of  Flint Kearsley High School. Rod was a veteran of the United States Army and was a Lieutenant for the Genesse Twp. Police Department.

Rod married Diane Baker on May 18, 1963. Rod and Diane lived and raised their family in Bay City and Auburn, Mi. They were owners of a 7-11 store in Bay City for over 30 years. Rod and Diane wintered for many years in Swiss Village, Winter Haven, before permanently moving to New Port Richey in 2008. Rod was also an avid golfer and enjoyed his "starter" jobs in both Michigan and Florida. Rod was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather to his wife Diane; daughters, Sharri and husband Jim Cook, and Renee and husband Tom Wibirt; Grandchildren, Meghan Bourcier, Brett Cook, Sarah and Samantha Wibirt, all of Holiday, Fl. Also surviving are his brother David Stephens and wife MaryAnne of  Mi. many nieces, nephews and friends.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 PM. Saturday (3/14) at Oak Ridge Funeral Care,  1001 Grace Avenue, Haines City and from  1:00 PM till services at 2 PM. Sunday at the First Presbyterian Church, 104 Scenic Highway S. Haines City. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be sent via: oakridgefuneralcare.com