Gary Lee Stevenson of Cape Girardeau, age 70, left this world on January 14, 2026, likely with a Marlboro Light in one hand and a story on his lips. He was born May 8, 1955, in Concordia, KS, the son of the late John "Jack" Stevenson and Virginia Landreth.

He loved old cars, a stiff drink, and a night of darts at the Eagles. He could charm anyone-especially the ladies-and talk his way through just about anything. He was a good time, a good friend, and a man who'd give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. He lived life on his own terms-sometimes stubbornly, always fully. He was a loving father, completely obsessed with his girls, and a proud grandfather who never missed a chance to joke around and make the kids laugh.

He is survived by his stepmother, Julie Stevenson; three daughters, Kara Stevenson, Kylee Koehler, and Katrina Stevenson; and one who was like a son to him, Geoffrey Bowman; one brother, Mike Stevenson; and grandchildren, Jackson, Caden, Nathan, Layla, and Emitt. In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by one sister, Carla Drescher.

A celebration of life will take place on Monday, January 19, at 1 p.m. at the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Cape Girardeau.