Richard F. Stephon – September 23, 2026

Richard F. Stephon, age 71, of New Philadelphia, died unexpectedly, Wednesday, September 23, 2026, in his residence.

Born in Union Hospital at Dover on October 9, 1954, Rich was a son of the late Fredrick and Doris Brown Stephon. He was a 1973 graduate of New Philadelphia High School and for many years was the co-owner of R&S Mining. He was later employed by and retired from CMA in Bolivar, where he worked as a press operator.

Rich’s biggest passion in life was taking his sons on trips to explore the Western United States. He loved everything about the West and sharing those experiences with those he loved meant a lot. Trips he still spoke of today. He was a woodworker and a handyman. He was often found in his garage “tinkering around” or fixing something. He was a hard worker who enjoyed staying busy, however, one thing was for sure: wherever Rich was, his coffee cup was right next to him.

He is survived by his grandsons, Kyle Stephon of Florida and Austin (Miranda Burke) Stephon of Massillon; his sisters, Kathy (John) Heid of New Philadelphia and Sue (Shawn) Bower of Chillicothe; his nieces, Kristy (Jason) Froman, Jessica McCray all of New Philadelphia, Mindy (Kyle) Bianco of Chillicothe, and Stacey (Matt) Caressi of Kingston, Ohio; as well as nine great-nieces and nephews.

In addition to his mother and father, Rich was preceded in death by his sons, Jim Stephon and Joe Stephon.

The family will greet guests on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 10 – 11 AM in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover where Pastor Brian Flood will lead a service beginning at 11 AM. Burial will follow in the Ridgecrest Memorial Gardens at Dover.