Edward E. Stephens – 68, of North Reading and formerly of New Bedford, died Saturday, January 20, 2018 at the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington, after a lengthy illness.
Born in Acushnet, MA on August 8,1949. He was the son of the late Edward and Marilyn (Colby) Stephens. He was raised and attended school in New Bedford and was a graduate of New Bedford High School.
Ed was a proud U.S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam War (1967-1968). He received the Vietnam Service Medal and a Silver Service Star. He was a SP4 and his overall service was from 1967 to 1970.
Ed was a retired employee of the Town of Andover Water Department. He also worked for the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington, and was a Realtor for ReMax. He was a resident of North Reading for the past 39 years and a member of the Aldersgate United Methodist Church.
He was accepting of everyone and truly loved everyone unconditionally. He was supportive and will be fondly remembered for his pure heart and generous spirit. Ed was a loving husband, parent, grandparent and uncle. He coached every sport for every child. He ran the Dunk Tank for the North Reading Fourth of July Celebration. He was an active member of the community.
Family members include his loving wife of 37 years, Rosalia “Lia” (Blasi) Stephens; sons, Michael, Jeffrey and James Stephens; daughters, Tara, Rachel and Kristi Stephens; brother, David Stephens; grandchildren, Matthew and Mikayla Colwell, and Hayley Stephens; niece Bethany (Stephens) Bettencourt; nephews, Patrick, Christopher and Michael Stephens; and a multitude of family friends and loved ones who Ed welcomed into his home and heart with open arms.
His Memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 3 at 11:00 AM, followed by a collation at the Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 235 Park Street, North Reading. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: North Reading Veterans Gift Account, 235 North Street (Town Hall), North Reading, MA 01864, c/o Susan Magner.
Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading.  Www.croswellfuneralhome.com