Willard “Tad” Rawls Stephenson, 75, passed away Jan. 9, 2016.  He was born in Isle of Wight County, the son of the late James Linwood Stephenson Jr. and Daisy Belle Stephenson.  He was predeceased by his brothers, Sammy and Red Stephenson.  Tad was a retired broker and co-owner of R. L. Stephenson Realty.  He was a longtime member of Central Hill Baptist Church where he served in several capacities.  He was also a member of the Purdie Masonic Lodge #170.  Tad was a loving father and “the best” husband.  He was an avid fisherman and loved to travel around this beautiful country and the world.

He was known for his love of youth sports — from participating in his children’s activities, to his many years of coaching the Lady Mavericks, to the days of enjoyment watching his grandchildren play various sports.

Tad is survived by his wife, Marie; children, Penny Ellis (Ronnie), Tim Stephenson (Patti); stepchildren, Rebecca Carter (D.J.), David Watson (Krista), Thomas Watson (Lisa), and Michael Watson; 15 grandchildren; six great-granddaughters; and brother, Danny Stephenson (Suzie).
 A visitation will be held Friday, Jan. 15, from 6 – 8 p.m. at Parr Funeral Home & Crematory, Suffolk.  A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016 at 10 a.m. at Central Hill Baptist Church with Dr. Jarvis Hearn and the Rev. Bill Taylor officiating.  In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital.  Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.