Doyal Ray Stephens

Doyal Ray Stephens passed peacefully from this life on August 27, 2026. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, businessman, musician, songwriter, hotrodder, and friend. He was known for his strong work ethic, quick wit, and above all, his deep love for God and his family. Doyal was born at home in Kensing, Texas, on February 14, 1938. The family story tells that his mother was playing dominoes when she had to pause the game long enough to have her baby—then returned to finish her dominoes game afterward. After leaving school during his senior year, Doyal began working at American Can Company in Arlington, where he spent nearly 18 years. He later owned Stephens Appliance, worked for K&N Electric in East Texas, and founded Tri Star Supply in 1994, which he operated until selling the company in 2002. In 1957, he met the love of his life, Myrtis Ann Schultz, in Cooper, Texas. They had known each other only two weeks before they married on July 13, 1957. Their whirlwind romance became nearly 70 years of marriage, family, music, and sweet memories. Together, they raised four children: Clint, Keith, Randy, and Kim. Doyal had a lifelong love of music. In 1972, he and Myrtis traveled to Nashville twice, recording eight songs with musicians from Hank Williams Jr.'s, Mel Tillis's, and Tex Ritter's bands. His songwriting earned the attention of Eddie Pleasant, Hank Williams Jr.'s business manager, who considered one of Doyal's songs for Charlie Pride. Doyal was also offered the opportunity to tour with Lawton Williams. Even though Doyal had the opportunity to pursue a music career, he chose what mattered most to him—being present for his family. Music remained a lifelong passion, and in retirement, he and Myrtis formed Coldwater Creek, sharing their bluegrass music at festivals, community events, and nursing homes. Doyal's faith led him to serve as a deacon and song leader at his church and to volunteer for many years on the Big Sandy School Board. He also loved fast cars and restoring old cars. Doyal was preceded in death by his wife, Myrtis; parents Cleo and Mary Stephens; brothers Ernest Stephens, Dale Stephens, and Donald Stephens; sisters Mary Loyce Boucher, Melba Woodson, Francis Weaver, and June Clark; his son, Clinton Ray Stephens; and his grandson, Clinton Joshua Stephens. He leaves behind his children, Keith Stephens (Rhonda), Randy Stephens (Prissy), and Kim Berger (Leo); grandchildren Hannah Stephens, Shannon Dutton, Tiffany Barber (Raymond), Steffany Jewell (Seth), Sara Allen (Chase), Lana Yarbrough (Eric), Lara Armas, Ryan Berger (Courtney), and Kirk Berger; 21 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; sisters Bena Green and Carolyn Tome; and many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly. Pallbearers will be Ryan Berger, Kirk Berger, Brayden Jewel, Collin Barber, Logan Jewel, and Cash Barber. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Sunday, August 30, 2026, at McWhorter Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Chilton Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm, Saturday. Please visit Doyal’s online registration book at www.mcwhorterfh.com to leave a memory for the family.

Doyal Ray Stephens

February 14, 1938 - August 27, 2026