Leonard “Buddy” Delano Stephenson was born November 25, 1943, in Seagraves, TX. With a name like that, he had a few nicknames; L.D., Buddy, Bud, Dad & Papa. He was born to Woodrow & Lillian Stephenson as the youngest of two children. Buddy attended Denver City High School where he was on the 1960 Mustang state champion football team. Along with playing football, Buddy was a track star before graduating in 1963.
Shortly after graduation Buddy met and married the love of his life, Ramona Lopez, on December 28, 1964. Together their lives revolved around family beginning with their two daughters, Lisa Todd and Nanette Wells. Buddy spent many years farming before ending his working years in the oilfield. After his early retirement, he worked as the best Papa in the world. There was rarely a missed sporting or school event, birthday party, or much less an opportunity to nap with one of his grandkids. Wherever his grandkids were is where he could be found.
Outside of family, Buddy enjoyed many hobbies in his life including racing cars & motorcycles, lake life, guns & refilling ammunition, classic cars, and watching westerns on repeat. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix, and he hated to waste anything. Buddy & Ramona also served as youth leaders for many years.
Buddy will be missed terribly by his wife, Ramona Stephenson of Lubbock, TX, daughters Lisa Todd and husband Ron of Lubbock, TX and Nanette Wells and husband Ron of Denver City, TX, grandchildren Michelle Davila (Caesar), Jordan Allen (Alyssa), Nathan Lawler, and Nicolette Stephenson. Great-grandchildren include Aaron Davila (Skyler), Alexis Garcia (Julian), Marcos Davila, Olivia & Kloe Wall, Chanlei & Thomas Allen, and Aiden Lawler. Great-great-grandchildren are Camila & Cali Garcia. Buddy is also survived by his sister, Myrna Harper, and several nieces & nephews.
He entered Heaven on September 8, 2023.
Graveside services will be held at Peaceful Gardens Memorial Park in Lubbock on September 21st at 11:00 a.m.
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