Goodbye Stephen

Stephen Kier Tennial 1971 - 2025

Disability Connection Midsouth bids a fond farewell to a remarkable individual who has been an integral part of the Disability Connection family, Stephen Kier Tennial. Stephen, who served as both a Human Resources Coordinator and Peer Mentor, is a true embodiment of kindness, resilience, and unwavering dedication.

Born on March 15, 1971, Stephen grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, graduating from Fairly High School in 1989. He later returned to college, earning degrees from Southwest Tennessee Community College and the University of Memphis. Stephen’s career in Human Resources began right here at Disability Connection Midsouth, Memphis' Center for Independent Living.

Stephen had a unique ability to make everyone around him feel seen and valued. His career at DCM provided him with the opportunity to advocate for individuals with disabilities, a cause he championed tirelessly. He was committed to ensuring the disability community was included in vital conversations concerning healthcare services, housing, transportation, and education, among other areas. His impact on the disability community is evident through his representation on numerous boards, including:

• State CHOICES Advisory Board Member for BLUE CARE Tennessee 
• Specialized Transportation Advisory Committee for the Memphis Area Transit Authority (Interim Chair) 
• Disability Rights Tennessee (Secretary) 
• Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, West Tennessee Policy Council 
• Memphis Advisory Council for Citizens with Disabilities 

As a Peer Mentor, Stephen brought a wealth of lived experience, empathy, and understanding to his role. His mentoring approach centered on listening, empowering, and helping others build confidence in their abilities, making a meaningful impact in the lives of those he mentored. Stephen’s dual roles truly allowed him to foster a workplace and community where everyone felt supported and empowered.

Beyond his professional life, Stephen was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband to Monica Tennial, whom he married on April 24, 2020. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Stephen was also the proud father of his only child, Kierra Tennial, his “pride and joy”. He spoke highly of Kierra to everyone, guiding her with values of honesty, kindness, respect, and patience.

Stephen’s infectious laughter, keen sense of humor, and unwavering positivity enriched so many lives. He taught those around him the importance of living with love, gratitude, and a sense of purpose.

Stephen is survived by his loving wife, precious daughter, mother, brother, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his sweet sister, Alicia Wilson.

While we will deeply miss Stephen’s presence, his legacy of kindness, advocacy, and dedication will continue to inspire us all.