Stephen Roy Qualls

Stephen Roy Qualls, 83, passed away on Saturday, October 11, 2025 in Spearman.

A reception will take place on Thursday, November 6, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 PM at Idalou First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors and Crematory.

Stephen was born February 28, 1942 in Lubbock to Luther and Reba Qualls. He graduated from Idalou High School in 1960 and went on to play college football at West State College in Canyon. Stephen stayed in Canyon for one year before transferring to Texas Tech University. He would graduate with his bachelor's degree in Range and Plant Science in 1965. His career would begin in Seminole with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Stephen would transfer to Wellington and several other communities before taking the position in Pampa in 1969. Not long after he was in Pampa, he took a job with Gifford Hill Irrigation Company in Spearman until 1973 and then he went out on his own and started Circle R Supply in Booker. Stephen would continue working in a few other ventures before moving to the South Plains area in 1986. He began as a home builder and continued to work until just a few years ago.

In May of 1961, Stephen married Vernell Havens. They had two sons, Ruben and Richard. Even though they had their differences, they continued to raise their two sons together.

While Stephen was in Abernathy, he became very involved in the community. He served on the Abernathy EDC board and was involved in Abernathy Chamber of Commerce, where he was awarded the Citizen of the Year in 2011. He had a heart of helping others, when he saw someone that had potential, he would pour everything he had into them to help them succeed.

In 1994, he was in a terrible automobile accident that broke his neck, it was a miracle he was able to ever walk again. It was a life-changing event that affected him for the rest of his life. Stephen created a scholarship in Abernathy to help anyone that had a physical disability.

Stephen was an avid Texas Tech fan, loved to support his alma mater. His family described him as “chaotic brilliant”, he was always thinking about great ideas, and he always had a project going. Stephen enjoyed cooking out, especially when his family was in town. He was proud of his family and loved them dearly.

Stephen was able to attend his 65th class reunion just 8 days before he passed away. He had a wonderful time and was able to see and visit with his lifelong friends.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Betty Lou Vincent and Jerry Ann Mauldin.

Survivors include his two sons, Ruben Qualls and wife Margaret of Chattanooga, TN and Richard Qualls and wife Tiffany of Pampa; he was Pawpa to his four grandchildren, Tanner Qualls and wife Elizabeth of New Bern, NC, Rylie Qualls of Charlotte, NC, Raegan Qualls of Denver, CO, and Rylan Qualls of Norman, OK; three great grandchildren, Theo, Oliver, and Anna Qualls all of New Bern, NC; and the mother of his children, Vernell Reeves.

The family would like to thank Hansford Manor in Spearman for the love and care they have shown Stephen during his stay.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Hansford Manor, 707 S Roland St, Spearman, TX 79081.