Albert and Myrtle Stevens of Madison County, Kentucky, gave life from their love to James Enoch Stevens on December 9, 1933. James is a brother of Betty Lou (Bill) Usher and Peggy Ann (George) Eldridge of Milton, Indiana, Robert (Sandy) Stevens of Centerville, Indiana.
James graduated with the class of 1951 from Milton High School where he played basketball and scored the winning shot at the Wayne County Tourney. He joined the Army in 1954 and studied encryption in Germany and Austria. James ended his tour of duty in 1956 and continued active reserve until 1962.
James met his loving wife of almost 60 years, Joanna Lee (Whitten) Stevens, and they were married on March 24, 1957, at the Nazarene Church in Connersville. He was employed by Miller Dairy where he was plant manager until they closed their doors in 1998. James worked for Astro for two more years until his retirement. He enjoyed his woodworking and horticulture.
Together, James and Joanna gave life to two sons, Mark Allen (Denise) Stevens of Cambridge City, Brian Douglas (Connie) Stevens of Centerville. James took delight in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, Justin Benton (Melissa) Stevens, Braydon Douglas (Sarah) Stevens, all of Williamsburg, Indiana, Nathan Patrick and Brandon Stevens, both of Richmond, Indiana, Marissa and Kelsey Stevens of Cambridge City; two great-grandsons and three great-granddaughters. James also gave his love and knowledge to all his nieces and nephews.
God gracefully and peacefully took James’ hands and took him home as his loving son, Brian, sat by his side on Saturday, January 7, 2017, while residing at Golden Living Center in Richmond. James is reunited in heaven with his parents; infant brother, Dennis Stevens; brother-in-law, George Eldridge; niece, Susan Stevens and her son, Mark Cross.
James would ask us all to remember 2 Timothy 4:7 – I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.
Alongside his faith, his grace was as great as he was. He lives in all he loved and touched.
James, Dad, we will miss you. We will all gracefully rejoice in the day that we sit on that porch beside you. We love you!
James and his wife, Joanna, and family along with friends would like to thank the nursing staff at South Station Dietary and Healthcare Services. Thank you, Jennifer, Tara, Sandy and all of the staff at Asera Cares. He passed peacefully with dignity. A very special thank you is extended to his daughter-in-law, Connie Stevens, for all the time, care and comfort you gave to James throughout the years. James, you did it your way!
Family and friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2017, at Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home, 1704 Grand Avenue, Connersville, IN 47331. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2016, at Grace United Methodist Church, 2836 Indiana Avenue, Connersville, IN 47331. Rev. Ronnie Wylie will officiate. Burial will follow at Westside Cemetery, Milton.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Red Bird Mission, and online condolences can be made anytime at www.millermosterrobbins.com.