Christopher Michael Stephens

Christopher Michael Stephens, 44, of Salem, Arkansas passed from this life on Friday, September 17, 2021, in Salem, Arkansas. Christopher was born April 11, 1977 at the Fulton County Hospital in Salem, Arkansas to Michael Clark Stephens and Lisa Ann (McCullough) Denny.

Though single throughout his life, Chris had found “the one” when he met Amy Carpenter.  They met online through a Libertarian group on Facebook.  They spent hours every day on the phone &/or the computer.  Finally, they met in person in July 2021.  They felt they had known each other forever.  Chris was self-employed but had spent several years as the frozen food department manager at Town and Country grocery store in Salem.  Chris had also worked at Swingle Family Diner in Salem.  Chris graduated Salem High School and then signed up for service in the United States Army.  Chris spent several years serving in North Carolina, Texas, and Georgia where he attended jump school and became a paratrooper.  Chris spent time in Bosnia with the Intelligence Unit.  Chris attended church as a child listening to his Grandpa Clark Stephens preach at the Baptist church and he maintained a faith in God throughout his life.  His goodness shined through, and he never met a stranger.  Chris had friends scattered across the globe.  He loved the outdoors and animals, especially his pets. 

Chris is survived by his sweetheart Amy Carpenter and her two children of Geismar, Louisiana; parents, Lisa Denny (Bob) of Salem, Arkansas; step mother, Donna Stephens of Houston, Texas; grandmother, Gracie Stephens of Salem, Arkansas, two sisters, Summer Stephens (Darell Berry) of West Plains, Missouri and Ashley Lawson of Las Vegas, Nevada; nieces and nephews, Kenneth, Shyanna, Rachel, Jace, and Bella; aunt, Ophelia McCullough and her daughter (Stephenie) of Thayer, Missouri; many other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his father (Michael Stephens), grandfather (Clark Stephens), grandparents (Audie and Edith McCullough), uncles (Bruce Stephens, Stephen McCullough, and A.G. McCullough and wife Willene).

Because his loss was so devastating to all who knew him a memorial service will be held at a future date when we are all more able to celebrate his life in the way he deserved.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Barker Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses.  Arrangements are under the direction of Barker Funeral Home, LLC in Salem, Arkansas.