Robert Stephens

Robert L. Stephens Jr. departed this world on July 3, 2023, after suffering a massive stroke. He was 79 years old.

Born in Bellingham, Washington, to parents Bob and Iva Della Stephens, Rob was the eldest of four brothers. His father owned several businesses in the Puget Sound area, so Rob grew up on the water. He loved fishing, crabbing, camping, boating, and water-skiing with his family.

Rob earned a B.A. in history with a minor in English from the University of Washington in Seattle in 1967. His life took an unexpected turn during his junior year when he met and married the love of his life, a Montana girl named Zena. The two eloped and soon welcomed three beautiful children into the world, even as Rob attended law school. He graduated from the Syracuse University College of Law in 1970 and later earned a Master of Laws in Law and Marine Affairs from the University of Washington in 1992. While he loved the Pacific Northwest, he established a thriving general litigation practice in Billings, Montana, with an emphasis on civil plaintiff's claims and criminal defense.

As a brilliant trial attorney with over half-a-century in the courtroom, Rob fought with unwavering intensity to protect the constitutional rights of the people. He considered it his privilege and duty to ensure fairness for all. His career was legendary. His criminal defense experience included all major felonies, including homicide and capital offenses. He argued numerous cases before the Montana Supreme Court. He had over 90 criminal and civil appeals in both state and federal courts. He taught courses on evidence, investigation, and interviewing techniques in the paralegal program at Rocky Mountain College. He gave riveting lectures on various controversial legal issues for the National Business Institute. He was even featured on Court TV for a negligent homicide case. Rob was a long-standing and well-respected member of the Montana Bar Association and was very proud of the 50-year pin he received in 2020 for his years of dedicated service.

Beyond his legal pursuits, Rob's heart overflowed with a love for animals, especially dogs. Though he often appeared stoic, the true depths of his tenderness and compassion were revealed in the special bond he created with his beloved pets throughout the years, and in the tears that flowed freely when he encountered a trailer for any dog movie of any kind.

Rob was intelligent and highly creative. Those who had the privilege of knowing him described Rob as one of the most brilliant individuals they had ever met. Quick-witted, insightful, and extremely talented, he was also a painter, sketch artist, and writer. He wrote stories and books, which he illustrated himself, and he even created his own board game.

Tall and handsome, with dark hair and blue eyes, Rob exuded a natural charisma. Although he may not have sought it, he instinctively became a beacon of guidance for others. Countless individuals sought his assistance, and whenever possible, he readily extended his support. He was generous beyond measure, devoting much of his time to helping those in need, regardless of their background or circumstances. Offering second, third, fourth, and fifth chances became his trademark. He always embraced people as they were and welcomed them into his home. His rich, resonant voice commanded attention, and his deep, booming laughter was contagious. Rob's presence at any event ensured that it would be a celebration long remembered. He was nonjudgmental. He was the life of every gathering. And if you invited him, he would come.

Imperfect yet always striving for growth, Rob acknowledged his past mistakes, understanding that life was a continuous journey of learning. As time passed, his relationships with each of his children and grandchildren deepened and flourished, a testament to his unwavering commitment. He never missed a basketball game, a volleyball tournament, or a football match. He attended concerts, plays, film festivals, and writers' conferences. He showed up for graduations, weddings, parties, holidays, vacations, and all significant family milestones. He nurtured unique connections with each of his children and grandchildren, embarking on memorable adventures, such as fishing expeditions in Alaska with his son, weekly dinner dates with his eldest daughter, and spirited cribbage tournaments with his youngest. Without fail, Rob answered the phone any time one of his children called. He was a fascinating and complex figure—a hardworking, imperfect, and genuinely good man who left an indelible mark on all he encountered.

On the day of his oldest grandchild's college graduation, Rob imparted these words: "Remember, Steele, the journey is more important than the destination." Reflecting upon his life, it's clear that Rob believed in this philosophy and lived it to the fullest.

As he lay in a hospital bed surrounded by loved ones, Rob's journey reached its destination. In those final hours, he made an incredibly meaningful declaration of faith. He professed his belief in Jesus and shared that his son Robbie stood beside him, illuminated by light, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to guide him into heaven and onto their next grand adventure. Independence Day, Rob's favorite holiday, took on new meaning as he witnessed the celebrations from the best seat in the house.

To all who patiently wait upon the Lord, a day will come when tears shall cease, and divine guidance shall be revealed. Whether we turn left or right, a gentle voice shall guide us, saying, "This is the way; walk in it" (Isaiah 30:15-21).

Rob is preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Iva Della Stephens, his brother Ron Stephens, sister-in-law Terrye Stephens, ex-wife Zena Walborn, daughter-in-law Pam Stephens, and beloved son Rob Stephens. He is survived by his daughters, Darcy LaBeau and Zena Dell Lowe, his grandchildren, Steele (Meg), Riley and Piper (Jake) Stephens, and Peyton, Benjamin, and Olivia LaBeau, his brothers Rick and Randie Stephens, sister-in-law Lori Stephens, his long-time companion, Eileen Reichert, stepchildren, Toby Erickson, Rusty Reichert, and Rachelle Tylo, many cherished nieces and nephews, and other special family and friends too numerous to name.

A celebration of Rob's life will be held at 2pm MDT on Saturday, July 29, at Gary Blain's hangar, 6309 Jellison Road, Billings 59101 (Right on Hillcrest, Right on Stratton Road, Right on Jellison Road). In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Rob's name to the Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter, https://yvas.org/get-involved/make-a-gift/