Steve Stephens, a former Dayton mayor and lifelong community member, is searching for a precious item lost during errands on Thursday, Dec. 19: his wedding band, a symbol of his 60-year marriage to his late wife, Sandra.
Stephens said he noticed the ring was missing after running errands, which included a trip to the Liberty County Courthouse to probate Sandra’s will, a stop at Liberty Walmart, and a visit to a hair salon in Tarkington. Realizing the loss, Stephens returned to the courthouse that evening, searching by flashlight, and retraced his steps the following day but has not yet found the ring.
The gold band, adorned with five diamonds, holds immense sentimental value to Stephens, who explained that in the final months of Sandra’s life, his focus on her care caused him to lose 50 pounds, leaving his fingers smaller and the ring loose.
“My wedding ring kept falling off my finger. When Sandra passed away, I vowed to wear the ring until the day I die. I should have gotten it downsized, but with taking care of her, I never got around to it, and I am paying for it now,” Stephens said.
Stephens is offering a handsome reward for its return, hoping someone will find and bring back this irreplaceable token of his love and devotion.
Steve and Sandra’s love story began in the 1960s, when Steve returned to the United States after being stationed overseas in Thailand. During his final months in the Army, stationed at Fort Gordon, he met Sandra at Trainer’s Drive-In in Baytown.
It wasn’t love at first sight—Sandra initially turned down Steve’s request for a date. But two months later, after his discharge from the Army, she gave him a chance. The couple dated three times before getting engaged and were married on Feb. 7, 1964, at First Christian Church in Baytown.
Steve and Sandra built a life together, welcoming two daughters, Angelia and Teresa, and moving to Steve’s hometown of Dayton in 1976. They became pillars of the community, attending Dayton United Methodist Church and serving in various roles. Steve served on the Dayton ISD school board for 15 years and as mayor from 2005 to 2011.
Sandra was a fighter, overcoming stage four breast cancer in 1998 and battling cancer four more times, including two bouts with brain cancer. Her resilience was a testament to her strength and faith, which inspired everyone around her. Sandra passed away in October 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, courage, and community spirit.
As the Christmas season approaches, Stephens is hoping for a Christmas miracle: the return of his cherished wedding band.
“It’s not just a piece of jewelry,” he said. “It’s a part of Sandra and me.”
If you find the ring, please call Steve at 936-334-3494.
Mr. Steven,
I said a prayer asking Jesus to help you find your wedding ring. I hope you checked your vehicle really well because your ring could have fallen off in your vehicle. 🙏🏽✝️🙏🏽