Lowndes F. "Rick" Stephens

Lowndes F. "Rick" Stephens, 81, passed away Monday, October 26, 2026 in Lexington, SC. Born in Frankfort, KY, he was the son of the late James and Harriet Connelly Stephens. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Economics and Minored in Journalism in 1967 followed by earning his Master's Degree in Arts and Communication with a Minor in Economics in 1969, both at the University of Kentucky. He earned his Doctorate in Mass Communication and Research from the University of Wisconsin in 1975.

Dr. Stephens was passionate about education with his professional career dedicated to academics. He started his teaching career at the University of North Dakota and then transitioned to the University of South Carolina in 1976 where he was a professor in the College of Information and Communications for 35-years. During his career, he also served as an associate dean, research center director, endowed-chair holder and major adviser to many students on thesis and dissertation projects. He had many publications and public speaking engagements and received several recognitions for his contributions to the field including getting the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021.

Dr. Stephens enlisted in the Army Reserves in 1968 and advanced to the rank of lieutenant colonel during his 27-year career in the armed services. He carried out assignments in infantry, AG and public affairs and served as a faculty consultant to the Army Command and General Staff College.

As a youth, he was a well-rounded athlete with his favorite sports being baseball and football. He remained an enthusiastic sports fan throughout his life enjoying cheering on his favorite collegiate and professional teams. He was a dedicated family man and active member of his United Methodist Church community.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 58 years, Sally Stephens; his daughter, Sally Stephens Kutyla (Mark); son, John Brent Stephens (Sheryl); grandchildren, Madison Carver (Mason), Mia Kutyla, Caroline Stephens, and Ty Stephens.

He was predeceased by his twin sister, Lucy Stephens; and brothers, Johnny Stephens and Jimmy Stephens.

A private entombment will be held at Bush River Memorial Gardens Mausoleum. A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 a.m. on November 21, 2026 at Union United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ETV Endowment of South Carolina or any other foundation that supports the field of education or mass communication.