Celebration Of Life For Sheriff Robert Stephenson At Newton Township Fire Department

The Newton Township Fire Department held a Celebration of Life service for Sheriff Robert Stephenson.

The service was attended by members of the Franklin County Sherriff’s office Honor Guard, Newton Township Fire Department, as well as current and former employees of the Muskingum County Sheriff’s Department. The attendees were able to celebrate the many years of service Stephenson gave to serving those around him.

“We could go on for hours. The Sheriff started back in ’72, in the early 70’s. He left for just a little bit, but then came back to the Sheriff’s office and retired from there. He did 24 years and then ran for Sheriff. Then he served 12 years as Muskingum County Sheriff,” current Muskingum County Sheriff Matt Lutz said.

Even though he had an extensive list of accolades for his life in public service, including being a Newton Township Trustee since 2009, he still always made time to let his personality show.

“He had an effectuous smile. He was a big hugger, had a big smile from ear to ear, and just never knew a stranger. He always had time to talk to people, always had something to add to the conversation, and served as a very honorable Sheriff and a very proud Sheriff, and was very proud in the traditions, and was very proud in his ability to serve, and what he did here and what he accomplished,” Lutz added.

Stephenson is survived by his wife Sonnie, sons Robb and Shane, and daughter Ashlie.