Deceased Members–2002

In Memory of W. Tris Stevens

W. Tris Stevens, FSA, MAAA, died on May 5, 2002, in Etowah, Tenn., near Memphis, where he had been receiving specialized health care. Born on March 17, 1927, in Ithaca, New York, he graduated in mathematics from Cornell University. He worked for several companies during his career, starting at Mutual Benefit Life in Newark, N.J., and retiring from Stevens, Dowd and Co., in Jackson, Miss. Along the way, he was vice president and chief actuary of Interstate Life and Accident Insurance Company in Chattanooga, Tenn., and vice president and enrolled actuary at Stevens, Dowd and Co.

He achieved Fellowship in the Society of Actuaries in 1961, was a charter member of the American Academy of Actuaries, and also earned the designations of CLU, EA, and CEBS. He was a member of the Southeastern Actuaries Club.

He is survived by his wife of fifty years, Dorothy Lyon Stevens of Athens, Tenn.; two sons and one daughter–in–law, Kenneth and Pat Stevens, and Bruce Stevens; one daughter and son–in–law, Laurie and Happy Powell; and two grandchildren.

Tris Stevens worked to see things as they really were, and not just as they appeared. He maintained a sense of humor, could laugh at himself, and was a pleasure to work with. His career has enhanced our profession.