James Benjamin Stephens

James "Jim" Benjamin Stephens, 97, of O'Fallon, MO went to join the Lord on November 15, 2023.

Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Irene Stephens (Harrell), his parents Claude and Etta Stephens, his two brothers, Glenwood "Steve" Stephens and Harry "Pete" Stephens, and his sister Mary Lou Tullock.

Jim leaves behind his four children Al (Sylvia) Stephens, Ruby (Rich) Skates, Ronald Stephens, and Stephen (Yvonne) Stephens. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Jim was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, cousin, friend, and brother in Christ.

Born March 28, 1926, in Lost Creek, Missouri, Jim lived a life filled with love, kindness, and a passion for serving the Lord. He proudly served in the Civilian Conservation Corps (1941), the United States Navy (1944 - 1946) aboard the USS White Plains, and in the United States Naval Reserves (1951-1952).

Jim met Irene Harrell while working at Pope's Cafeteria in 1946 and they were married on March 4, 1947. They spent an incredible 61 years together.

Jim was a milkman for Cool Valley Dairy, proud owner of Berkeley Dairy on Airport Road and a former member of the Kiwanis. He retired from the Ferguson-Florissant School District. A member of Westlake Church of Christ, Jim spent his entire life loving the Lord and in service to his neighbors. He participated in many Bible studies over the years. Jim spent his older years watching Cardinal baseball, cheering on Mckendree Men's Volleyball, and playing lots of Rummikub.

We will miss his big smile, endless stories. and words of wisdom and encouragement. May he rest in peace.