James Joseph Stephens Sr.

While in High School, he joined the Civil Air Patrol and because he had the highest score on a Navigation Test he won a flying grant which paid for flight training. After his training he made his solo flight. In June 1946, few weeks after graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Army and after basic training he was eventually sent to Japan. After his tour of duty in Japan, he returned to the states for an honorable discharge in October 1947. He met his wife, Nancy in 1948 while attending a Catholic Youth Organization meeting. They were married January 27, 1951 and enjoyed over 57 years of marriage before Nancy passed away November 19, 2008. After his Army service, he enrolled at the Institute of Radio and Television in Jacksonville, FL and received his 1st Class Radio License which enabled him to work as an Engineer at a Radio Station. He was employed by WIVY in 1948 until he left in 1957 to take a job with IBM. He retired from IBM in 1990 with over 32 years of service.

He is survived by his six children, Jim Stephens and wife Cynthia, Terry Stephens and Melissa Faller, Kathy Crettier and husband Nick, Chris Stephens, Mark Stephens and Jeff Stephens. He had many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren that he loved and enjoyed so much. He was preceded in death by his youngest sister Nancy Fritch, grandson Alex Crettier, and brother in law Jimmy Middleton and is survived by his sister Mary Ann Middleton, brother in law Bob Fritch and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff of Transitions Lifecare, both outpatient and inpatient, Comfort Keepers and Lekita Care for their loving care and attention during his illness. In lieu of flowers you can make a donation to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or Transitions Lifecare in Cary or the charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.BrownWynneCary.com for the Stephens family.