Obituary of Robert L. Stevens

Robert L. Stevens, 91, of Cortland, passed away on Monday December 14, 2020 at Cortland Park Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation. Robert was born on August 27, 1929 in Cortland, NY, the son of the late Michael DiStefano and Lena M. Quattrocchi. A United States Army Veteran, Robert served in the 82nd Airborne Division. While serving in Fort Brag, Robert met his soon to be wife Mary Kay Sessoms. They then wed in Bennettsville, SC. Robert and Kay were married for 70 years. One of the great joys in his life came from Coaching Football and undoubtedly devoted himself to the St. Mary's School Football Program. Robert was an avid fan of Army Football and would attend many of the home West Point Football games annually with his family. He was the owner of both Robert's Restaurant and the Four Flags. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and playing cards at the local Elks Club. Robert was extremely proud of his Italian Heritage. He always enjoyed speaking with his friends in Italy especially, Antonio and Amedeo. Robert loved his entire family and was so proud of his grandchildren. Robert is survived by his loving wife Mary Kay Stevens; son Mark (Nancy Yang) Stevens; daughter Linda Rasoulinejad; grandchildren Katherine (Tyler Spicer) Stevens and Michele (Eamon Rayhn) Stevens; his sister Beatrice O'Mara; a sister-in-law Mary Stevens; his brother-in-law Edward Purser; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son Michael Stevens; his son-in-law Masoud Rasoulinejad; his siblings Albert Stevens, James Stevens, Dorothy Stoker, John "Johnny" Stevens, Norma Lundberg, and Betty Ann Purser. Robert was also predeceased by his dear friend, Tommy Aloi. A funeral service for family members will be held at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home, Inc on Saturday at 11am. The service will be streamed live at https://m.facebook.com/wrightbeardfuneralhomeinc/ Friends are invited to the burial at St. Mary's Cemetery at 11:45am on Saturday. We will be following NYS guidelines regarding capacity, facial coverings, and social distancing. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider a donation to the Stevens Family.