James E Stephens James Edward Stephens was born January 4, 1935, in Arcadia, Florida. He lived most of his adult life in Lakeland, Florida. He died Monday, August 12, 2024, at LRMC with family by his side. He was the oldest of 7 children born to Samuel Stephens and Eva (Hall) Stephens.

James served in the National Guard in the late 1950's. He worked for General Telephone for 35 years as a PBX Technician.

James' hobbies included fishing, collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia, watching NASCAR and football and collecting antiques. He enjoyed listening to classic country music while tinkering with cars or building wood swings and rockers. He loved his coffee and newspapers but loved spending time with his family the most.

James is survived by 3 children, Greg (Kathi) Stephens, Lori (Ricky) Kiddey, Beth (Greg) Feverston and an honorary child, April (Tim) Hull. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren and their spouses, Erin (Vinnie), Richard (Laura), Zach (Meghan), Adam (Jen), Tyler, Clayton (Cassidy) and Bryce, along with 9 great-grandchildren, Hailey, Hannah, R.L., Boone, Waylon, Lauren, Zach, Charlotte and Wylie.

James is preceded in death by longtime partner Shirley Marshall.

A memorial service will be held at Gentry Morrison, 3350 Mall Hill Drive, Lakeland, FL 33810 at 2:00 PM Monday, August 19, 2024, preceded by visitation from 1:00-2:00 PM.