James Stephens

BENSON — James Dewey Stephens “Steve”, 87, of Benson, died Jan. 6, 2013, at Johnston Medical Center.

The funeral will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Andrews Mortuary Market Chapel. Interment will follow in Oleander Memorial Gardens with Masonic Rites accorded by Wilmington Lodge No. 319 AF and AM.

He was born on April 5, 1925, in Lumberton, the son of the late James T. and Lettie J. Martin Stephens.

He was also preceded in death by three brothers, Woodrow, Winslow and Wiley.

Stephens was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and was a past master of Wilmington Lodge No. 319, AF and AM Masonic Lodge. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who cherished the time he spent with his family. Stephens had a great love of the outdoors and was a friend to everyone he met.

Stephens is survived by his wife of more than 65 years, Marie Barnes Stephens; two daughters, Vicki Collins, and Sharyn Klein and husband Larry; six grandchildren, Bryan Konig and wife Sarah, William Collins Jr. and wife Lorna, Traci Williams and husband Gerry, Stephen Collins and wife Stacie, Rhonda Fox and husband Dale, and Eric Klein; six great-grandchildren; a niece, Shirley; a nephew, Jonny Pridgen and wife Wanda; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family will receive friends one hour before the service at Andrews Mortuary Market Chapel.

Memorials may be made in Mr. Stephens’ honor to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, Okla., 73123-1718.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.andrewsmortuary.com

Paid obituary