Dr. William Daniel Stephens

Dr. William Daniel Stephens (Danny) passed on from this life on July 17, 2023, at 65. He was born Feb. 23, 1958.
Danny grew up in Monticello, where he developed a love and appreciation of nature. He was a graduate of Monticello High School Class of 1976. He attended Ole Miss and was a diehard Rebel fan for life. He was excited to celebrate the team winning the College World Series at the same time as his wedding anniversary.
He was a member of the Chi Psi Fraternity, where he made friends that lasted a lifetime. He greatly enjoyed his years at Ole Miss and graduated in the Class of 1980. He then attended UMMC in Jackson, graduating in 1984. He completed his residency at Baptist Medical Center in Birmingham, Ala., where he became chief resident, finishing in 1987 and marrying the love of his life, Melissa, in the same weekend. His practice led them briefly to Conroe, Texas, before returning to Mississippi to settle on the Gulf Coast, where he practiced for several years before returning to Jackson.
Danny was a gifted doctor and loved his work. He was beloved by his patients and often treated multiple generations of family members. As much as Danny loved practicing medicine, he loved his family more. He and Melissa were best friends and enjoyed doing everything together. He enjoyed being a part of everything his children did while growing up and was proud of the adults they have become. His three grandchildren were the light of life. His love for his patients and family was matched only by his love for Jesus Christ, which he demonstrated through medical mission work in Parras, Mexico.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Melissa, of Brandon; his children, Gracie (Andrew) Henry, of Taylor; and Will (Mei), of South Burlington, Vt.; grandchildren, Ruthie, Daniel, and Joel Henry; mother, Bobbie Stephens, of Monticello; brother, Louis (Carol) Stephens, of Eastland, Texas; and a host of relatives, friends and community members.
He was preceded in death by his father, Billy Stephens; and his infant sister, Judy Stephens.
Services were held at Crossgates Baptist Church, where Danny faithfully served as chairman of the Board of Deacons.
The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at UMMC and Baptist hospitals for the kindness, compassion, and care shown throughout this journey.