David Hanks Stephens

David Hanks Stephens, a native Texan who loved his state and the nation, always enjoyed celebrating Independence Day with fireworks. This year was an exception due to his passing on July 4th, 2021. David was 51, born on March 19, 1970, in Dallas, Texas, the son of Jerry and Alice Stephens of Georgetown.

David attended Austin Community College and the University of Texas at Austin. Everything David did was with the pride of doing it right the first time. He was a perfectionist in customer approval of the security and smart home systems he installed.

David had a particular knack for identifying homes and undeveloped properties that would rapidly appreciate in value. To that end he achieved his goal of being a high-end Austin realtor with a specialty in lake properties.

Water sports, biking and weight-lifting were his outlets for relieving stress, and enjoying life with his friends and colleagues. To the many that crossed paths with him, he was the guy with a big heart who would stop whatever he was doing to help someone in need. Typically, on his bike rides he would encounter the homeless or downturned, stopping to give them an uplifting message of encouragement and financial help.

David’s constant companion was a black rescue dog named Sassie Suzie, whom he depended upon throughout in his alcohol recovery, as his therapy buddy. Sassie is understandably bewildered by his absence, but appears to understand she will join him someday.

Much of the peace David achieved was attributed to Pastor Doug James of Hill Country Bible Church in Austin, who helped him find his way and restore his reliance upon the healing grace of our Devine Creator.

David is survived by his daughter Audrey Ramsower, his sister Susan Miner Wright, and his parents Jerry and Alice Stephens, as well as numerous uncles and cousins.

A special memorial service is being planned for July 4, 2022, on the banks of Lake Austin, where his ashes will join the waters he loved to boat and knee board for many years.