In Memoriam: William Stephens

William Stephens (1935-2023)

Lynne O'Malley Taylor

Bill Stephens was the first judge to welcome me to the Marin Municipal Court in 1983. We had something in common. We had both run in contested elections against the same opponent. We were the first to integrate the court and experienced some of the same issues of acceptance.

Bill was my friend on the court. He coached me on running a courtroom, what to do if in doubt about the law or procedure, how to prepare, and how to work with attorneys who, at times, could be less than cooperative and civil. He was such a good friend that he would let me know when I needed to address an issue or find some other way to solve a problem. (When I messed up.)

Our mutual friend, Retired Judge David Baty, once said that: “The most important quality of a judge is judicial temperament If he or she happens to know a little law, that is a plus.”

Bill had that most important quality of a judicial temperament. Bill was empathetic! He understood the plight of the poor and oppressed. He understood that coming to court can often be anxiety-provoking and scary for clients and attorneys. Bill made sure everyone felt welcome and comfortable in his courtroom. He was the best listener! He acknowledged what an attorney or client said to make sure they felt heard. He was soft-spoken, respectful, and kind to everyone! He was also brilliant and knew a lot of law!

Until Bill’s retirement party, I never heard about the discrimination Bill and his family experienced growing up in Louisiana. He never talked about his formative years It was so heartbreaking to think about how Bill and his family were treated. It is so wonderful to think that Bill overcame all that prejudice and became a successful lawyer and respected jurist.

Bill adored his family and was so proud of his children and the joy they brought to his life. He shared his joy in your accomplishments with us at our monthly Retired Judges’ lunches and we loved hearing about your escapades.

I was blessed and feel so grateful to have had Bill as a friend and colleague. He was a gem! Thank you to his family and children for sharing him with me. Thank you for allowing all of us to enjoy his service to the community for so many years of his life.

I am so sorry that I cannot be present for the celebration of Bill’s life. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.