Founder of CanyonLakeStorage.com

With deep gratitude, admiration, and respect, we honor the life and legacy of Phyllis “Tommi” Stephen, the guiding spirit, heart, and driving force behind CanyonLakeStorage.com. Tommi passed away after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease, leaving behind a treasured, locally owned business and a legacy of service to her community.

It all started in 1991, when Tommi’s loving and supportive husband, Mitch Stephen, discovered and purchased the land on the corner of FM 3159 and FM 311. This gave life to what would become CanyonLakeStorage.com. Mitch continued to acquire properties and develop storage facilities, adding to the growth of CanyonLakeStorage.com. At one point the couple that started from zero and built CanyonLakeStorage.com from the ground up owned and operated 18 different locations! When it was that big Mitch’s father joined the aspiring duo in helping to keep CanyonLakeStorage.com alive and thriving. From the very start, CanyonLakeStorage.com has been a truly family-built and operated business. Mitch handled the land acquisition and property development side of the company while supporting Tommi, in helping to achieve her cherished dream of creating a trusted locally run business rooted in community and integrity. From humble beginnings, Tommi and Mitch forged what would become a locally trusted name in storage solutions.

In the early days, Tommi managed the business with nothing more than a telephone, a filing box, and a stack of index cards. Her commitment to excellence, personal service, and genuine care for each customer shaped CanyonLakeStorage.com into the company it is today. Tommi established CanyonLakeStorage.com as more than just a place to store your things; she constructed a business rooted in trust, kindness, and true local care. From helping people find the perfect space for their RV or boat to greeting every customer like a friend. For years she showed what it meant to run a real community-based business. One where phone calls are answered with a smile and doing right by people always comes first.

Even as her health challenges grew, Tommi remained devoted to her work. She continued managing accounts with remarkable diligence and her signature warm, personal touch, embodying grace, and determination until the very end. Today CanyonLakeStorage.com proudly stands as a reflection of her commitment.

Tommi’s legacy is survived by her son Michael Marsh, her husband, Mitch Stephen, and her daughter, Shannon Stephen. Mitch and Shannon now carry on the business with the same heart and commitment Tommi modeled every day. Through their leadership, the values Tommi instilled will continue to guide CanyonLakeStorage.com for years to come.

We are proud to carry forward what she started. Tommi’s memory lives on not just in the business she built, but in every person she impacted along the way. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

Thank you, Tommi, for everything. Your light shines on.