John William Stevenson Sr.

Destined to travel far in life, John was born in Rhome, Texas, then moved to Paris….Texas. He grew up working in the corn and cotton fields and attended a one room schoolhouse where he would try, and succeed, in besting his older brother at math. From that humble beginning, John earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from TCU, a PhD from the University of Texas, a J.D. from SMU, and obtained a CPA. John was a lifelong learner, always open to new ideas and to expanding his thoughts and beliefs, making him a very young 96. John’s love of learning led him to a decades long career as a college professor, teaching students at TCU, UT, Stephen F. Austin, and Texas A & M, Corpus Christi.

Service topped John’s list of priorities. Following high school John enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving honorably during WWII. He and his wife Lois selflessly gave their time, talents, and resources in service of others through their church and community nonprofits. When they made Austin their home, they began providing free tax counseling to residents of a local nonprofit, Foundation Communities, which not only builds affordable and beautiful residential communities for families, veterans, seniors, artists and the disabled but also provides free on-site support services at each venue. Their involvement blossomed to such a degree that Foundation Communities honored them by naming a learning center after them. Aptly named the Stevenson Family Learning Center, it was a highlight in John's life.

Also a highlight in John's life: sports. He was an avid fan, vocal in his passion. A fierce Dallas Cowboys devotee, John's first love was the TCU Horned Frogs. Hours before John’s passing, the Frogs won a big game in which they were underdogs, a fitting tribute to a devoted fan.

John was preceded in death by his loving wife Lois Stevenson; his sister Imogene Stevenson; his brother “Bud” Stevenson, his wife Doris and their daughter Margaret. John is survived by his adoring family: daughter Rae Stevenson; daughter Laura Stewart, her husband Andrew and their daughter Ava; son John Stevenson Jr., his wife Robyn and their children Kasyn, Connor, and Chad; niece Mary Lynn Holder, whom he considered as a daughter, her husband Mike; and nephew Jim Stevenson and wife Debbie. John also leaves behind his dearest friend of almost 70 years, Marilyn Love; Peachy Myers, who he thought of as a daughter and her son Franklin; and Noel Cobb, who was the most loving caregiver and friend John could have imagined.

John wanted his life to be defined by love, hope and compassion. No doubt he succeeded in that desire. A private graveside service was held on December 10th to honor and remember John and his life well lived. Donations in John's memory may be made to Foundation Communities or other charities of choice.