Eric Stephens

Technical Sergeant Philip Eric Stephens, 46, died peacefully in his home in
Hamden, CT on August 22, 2020.

TSgt Stephens was a proud member of the United States Army and Air Force.
Serving selflessly for many years in many different countries and hostile
environments, TSgt Stephens served 18 years of active and reserve service.
His current duty station was with the 439 Security Forces Squadron at Westover
Air Reserve Base, Massachusetts. He fought conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan,
Bulgaria and Germany, receiving many awards and ribbons like the Afghanistan
Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Army Overseas Service Ribbon,
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal
and many more.

TSgt Stephens was born on July 22, 1974 in Union City, TN to Philip and
Janice Elaine Stephens. Proud follower of the Protestant and Greek Orthodox
faiths, TSgt Stephens cared deeply for his community. He attended the University
of Kentucky and the University of Central Florida, graduating in 1997.
In 2002, he joined the U.S. Army followed by the U.S. Air Force in 2016.

TSgt Stephens always put everyone first. His charm and charisma will be
unforgettable. Always living life to its fullest, he was always sharing stories
and life lessons. TSgt Stephens was never shy to express his feelings, with
the ability to communicate so clearly and passionately. Even in the most
difficult times, TSgt Stephens was able to push himself past the physical
limits of most. This man was a warrior – in many ways. TSgt Stephens
was a brave and loyal soldier who cared deeply for his country, his family
and his friends, and will be missed dearly.

TSgt Stephens is survived by his parents, Philip and Janice Stephens,
sister Michele Stephens, fiancé Agatha Vastakis Pestilli and her daughter
Alexa. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Harold and
Charlene Clark and paternal grandparents: Carnell and Elsie Stephens
and a niece Heather Danielle Baker.

A viewing will take place at The Havens Family, North Haven Funeral Home
on Tuesday, August 25, 2020, 5-8pm EST, located at 36 Washington Ave,
North Haven, CT. A secondary viewing will be held from 2-4pm Saturday CST at Camp
Beauregard Cemetery in Water Valley, KY. A graveside service with Military
Honors will follow at 4pm CST at the gravesite. Hornbeak Funeral Chapel is
in charge of local arrangements. We do ask that you wear a mask for the
visitation and graveside services.

Contributions in TSgt Stephens memory may be made to
St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.