Dr. Lawrence J. Stephens

Dr. Lawrence “Larry” James Stephens passed away on 09 September 2025 in the comfort of his home surrounded by loved ones. Larry was born in Chicago, IL, a son of the late James and Mary (Caughlin) Stephens. He is also predeceased by his wife of 54 years Theresa (Duster) Stephens, daughter Anne Marie Lewis, sister Margaret White and brother Michael Stephens.

As a young man in Chicago, Larry met Theresa. They fell in love, married and started their family with two children, Anne Marie and Mark, in Nebraska. Susan came along in 1970 in Ohio.

His love of science and education brought him and the Stephens family to Elmira in 1973 after graduating from Loyola University in 1963 and the University of Nebraska Lincoln in 1969 with a PhD in Chemistry. His career as a Professor of Chemistry at Elmira College spanned over 40 years and affected thousands of students. His passion was teaching and advising pre-med students, many of whom have become doctors and nurses. His tenure also included a time as Dean of Students at the college. His dedication to Elmira College brought him to many college fairs in the region. It wasn’t all work, as many of his students remember him from the annual third-term trips to The Bahamas, Ireland and Australia. Larry was a long-standing member of the American Chemical Society and co-author of the student textbook Chemistry and The Living Organism. Larry was also an active member and officer of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and a devout Catholic, involved with St. Mary’s Parish and St. Mary’s School.

Lawrence is survived by his loving family; children and their spouses: Mark P and Astrid Stephens of Pembroke Pines, FL, Susan T and Michael Darby of Rigby, ID. He also leaves behind his sister Kathleen Anderson of Grandview Heights, OH, son-in-law Jack Lewis of Piercefield, NY and his grandson and spouse Alexander and Emily Lewis of Tupper Lake, NY, grandchildren Shelby (Anthony and Paige) Darby, Ethan (Audrianna) Darby, Mikaila, Willow, Ezlyn, Orson and Aurelia Darby and two great grandsons Ashe Anatra and Jackson Lewis; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Larry loved Theresa so much, caring for her through the years as her health declined. Their travels went far and wide. Larry also loved his family and friends. He was dedicated and loyal. His generosity was immense and his story-telling and dry wit were unmatched. He enjoyed travel, genealogy, a good Manhattan and learning about family history. He lived a great life learning about the world and sharing his knowledge with those closest to him.

To honor his life, we ask that you share your stories with his family and in Irish tradition, raise a glass to honor his memory. Slainte!

Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water Street, Elmira, on Saturday, 13 September 2025 from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. A funeral service will follow at 10:15 am, officiated by Deacon Paul Sartori. Interment, with committal prayers, will then take place at St. Peter & Paul’s Cemetery.