Final Salute

Russell Raymond Stephens, Jr., architect, passed away on June 3, 2026, at the age of 83.

Russ was the beloved eldest brother of Marjorie L. Hebenstreit (“Midgie”) and brother-in-law of Karen Stephens. He was preceded in death by his younger brother, Gerald “Jerry” Stephens, and his brother-in-law, Richard Hebenstreit. He leaves behind three generations of nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.

Born in Cincinnati to Russell R. Stephens, Sr. and Violet E. Stephens (née Grimmer), Russ graduated from Archbishop McNicholas High School and later earned his degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning. During the Vietnam War, he proudly served his country as a U.S. Navy Seabee and continued his service in the Naval Reserves until April 1972.

After spending time in Memphis, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Saudi Arabia, Russ eventually settled in San Diego, California, where the climate was far more conducive to his love of convertible cars and seafood.

A man of remarkable determination, Russ trained for a half-marathon at the age of 55 and earned recognition for having “no missed work days.” Following his retirement as an architect with the U.S. Naval Facilities Engineering Command, he continued to diligently renew his architectural licenses in both California and Ohio through 2025.

Russ remained steadfast in maintaining friendships near and far. In fact, two of his college roommates traveled to Cincinnati for a planned face to face visit; he passed away a few days later.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. at E.C. Nurre Funeral Homes, 177 W. Main Street, Amelia, Ohio 45102.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Russ’ name to Archbishop McNicholas High School, the University of Cincinnati, College of Design, Art, Architecture and Planning or The San Diego Zoo,