With family by his side, Charles Newton Stephens Jr. of Onalaska, Texas, passed away at 73 on Oct. 24, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter.

Charles was born on April 18, 1951, in Austin, to Jane Brawley and Charles Stephens. He lived in Houston and Dallas, eventually finding his retirement home in Onalaska, where he enjoyed a beautiful view of Lake Livingston.

A proud veteran of the United States Coast Guard during the Vietnam era, Charles had a love of fast motorcycles and a keen appreciation for the thrills of life. Starting out as an engineer, he eventually traveled the world, designing motorcycle gear and pursuing his passion for adventure.

Charles shared 24 years of devotion, joy and companionship with his wife, Pamela. They were blessed with 7 children and 11 grandchildren, whom he loved dearly.

You'd often find Charles on his lakeside porch, drinking coffee in the morning with his cat, Gigi, reading an old Western book, producing fruitful harvests with his green thumb, telling a cheesy Dad joke, grilling up a feast, riding his Fat Cat and other antique motorcycles or listening to Rock'n'Roll, sometimes loudly, in his garage.

As part of the Blue Goose Riders, Charles and Pam enjoyed trips to Wister, Oklahoma, and dancing in blues bars with good friends.

Charles is survived by his wife, Pamela; his daughters, Zoe Neerman and her husband JJ, April Denton and her husband JD, Bonny Stephens, Rebecca Gleason, Rachael Gleason and her fiancé Ken, Stephanie Peters and her husband Johnnie; and his son, Chas Stephens III. Grandchildren include Maleah, Luke, Sophia, Brock, Jack, JJ and Hudson.

Charles is preceded in death by his mother, Jane Brawley; his father, Charles Newton Stephens; his stepmother, Francis Stephens; and his brother.

Charles's kindness and humor touched many lives, extending well beyond his family to an adoring extended family and a vibrant circle of friends.

A visitation will be held Friday, Nov. 1, 2024, from 5-7 p.m., followed by a funeral service on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, at 10 a.m., both at Cochran Funeral Home, 212 Old Groveton Rd, Onalaska, TX 77360.

Following the Saturday service, friends and family are welcome to a potluck lunch gathering at Pam and Charles's home in Onalaska.

Rest in Peace, Charles. Your love, spirit and laughter will be deeply missed and cherished forever.

Following the Saturday service, friends and family are welcome to a potluck lunch gathering at Pam and Charles's home in Onalaska.

The family requests that flower arrangements be made through Lasting Impressions in Onalaska, or donations be made to Polk County Recovers, an organization dear to Charles and Pam. https://www.polkcountyrecovers.org/donate

Rest in Peace, Charles. Your love, spirit and laughter will be deeply missed and cherished forever.