Joseph Edward Stephenson, 32, of Loxley, AL and formerly of Brandon, MS passed away suddenly on July 25, 2023 at his residence.

Joseph was born in McComb, MS to Edward Ronald Stephenson III and Christy Jones Thornton on May 23, 1991.

After graduating from Northwest Rankin High School, Joseph spent most of his life in Mississippi. He relocated to Austin, Texas for several years and most recently moved to Alabama to live closer to family. Joseph had a big heart and a beautiful smile. He was clever and quick-witted and always made everyone around him laugh. He was also very strong willed, which was no doubt a strength that helped him deal with life's challenges. He enjoyed woodworking and hiking and adored spending time with his beloved dog Stormi. Joseph deeply loved his family and friends. He was a joy to them and will be deeply missed.

Joseph is survived by his parents Christy and Dave Thornton of Brandon, MS and Ed and Libertie Stephenson of Daphne, AL; three sisters, Lori Carson and husband Lucas of Loxley, AL, Lindsey Stephenson of Birmingham, AL and Abbey Thornton of Brandon, MS; one brother, Zack Thornton of Brandon, MS; grandparents Jimmy and Charlotte Jones of McCall Creek, MS, Renee Williams of Robertsdale, AL, Rob Williams of Smiths Station, AL, Ed and Tonya Stephenson of Venice, FL, Tom and Mary Thornton of St. Augustine, FL and Tony Ellison of Columbiana, AL; and numerous other loved ones.

Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Joseph's life, which will be held at Wright's Bethesda Methodist Church, McCall Creek, MS on Saturday, August 5. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with a memorial service at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Wright's Cemetery Association 1960 Herring Road NE, McCall Creek, MS 39647.