Stephen Norman Pemberton

Stephen Norman Pemberton, 74, of Hardin, Missouri passed away Thursday, October 22, 2026 at St. Lukes Hospital of Kansas City surrounded by his family.

The family will host a private celebration of life as soon as arrangements have been finalized. Memories of Stephen and condolences for the family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our Facebook Page. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd Street., Odessa, MO 64076, 816-633-5524.

Stephen was born on March 7, 1952, in Odessa, Missouri to Willis Norman and Mary Melinda (Stone) Pemberton. He graduated from Holden High School in 1970 and went on to attend Central Missouri State University, where he earned an associate’s degree. On October 5, 1983, Stephen married the love of his life, Doris Jean (Templeton) Pemberton, in Jackson County. Doris preceded him in death on March 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love that continues to resonate in their family. A proud member of the Pipe Fitters Union and the UAW, Stephen dedicated his career to serving first at Bendix and later retiring from Ford Motor Company as a pipe fitter. His work ethic and ingenuity were unparalleled, and after retiring, he embraced a passion for farming, where he found joy and fulfillment tending to the land. Stephen's love extended beyond work; he had a heart for adventure, finding solace in fishing and reveling in the beauty of nature.

Stephen was survived by two children, Josh (Fiancée, Maijken) Pemberton of Higginsville, MO and Willis (Amy) Pemberton of Holden, MO; eight grandchildren, Garrett, Wyatt, Dakota, Levi, Jackson, Olivia, Jessylyn Pemberton, and Grant (Kyra) Hansuld; five great-grandchildren, Norma Pemberton, Kaizlee, Bryson, Archer, and Stephen Hansuld; one sister, Rebecca Lynn (Ralph Wheat) Pemberton of Holden, MO, and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Stephen was preceded in death by both his parents, his wife, Doris Jean Pemberton; and a brother, William (Jo Ann) Barton Pemberton.