Jesse Hayse Stephens of Hoover, Alabama went to be with the Lord on September 18, 2024. “Hayse” as he was affectionately called by his wife Mary, was born and raised in Northport, Alabama and graduated from Tuscaloosa County High School. He attended The University of Alabama studying Criminal Justice then later attended Birmingham School of Law.
Hayse was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 57-years Mary Maxwell Stephens, one brother James Donald Stephens and his parents Jewell Chestnutt Wooten & Jesse Ormand Stephens. Hayse is survived by three sons: Thomas M. Stephens (Sabrina), Phillip D. Stephens & Richard H. Stephens and one beloved granddaughter Mary Caroline Stephens.
Hayse spent a full life dedicated to public service. At the young age of 17, with permission from his mother, he enlisted to join the U.S. Navy during World War II (1944-1946) and served in The Philippines. Several years later, Hayse reenlisted in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War (1949 – 1953). He received an honorable discharge for both tours of duty. After time spent with the U.S Border Patrol and the City of Birmingham Police Department; Hayse was later hired by the U.S. Marshals Service. He had a distinguished 20-year career as a dedicated U.S Marshal. In 1962 Hayse and 126 other U.S. Marshals were assigned to riot duty in Oxford, MS to protect James Meredith. Hayse was injured while protecting Mr. Meredith’s right to enroll at Ole Miss. Hayse later received special letters of recognition for his service from both President John F. Kennedy and Attorney General Robert Kennedy. In 2002 U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft recognized Hayse and other Marshals for their service in Washington D.C. Hayse was interviewed by WBMG42 in 2018 about his life experiences in public service. https://www.cbs42.com/news/hidden-heroes-hayes-stephens/
Hayse was a long-time member of St. Mark United Methodist Church in Vestavia where he and Mary were members of the Aldersgate Sunday School Class. “Grandpa Jay” especially loved bragging about his beautiful granddaughter. He loved dogs, cigar smoking, Alabama Football, classical music, American & WWII History. Hayse was known for his sense of humor, and he would often times make you laugh by his antics or funny one-liners. The family would like to extend their gratitude to many special family friends: Nell Parks, Allen King, the staff at the CRLH State Veterans Home, Lakeside Hospice and St. Mark UMC. Thanks to the U.S. Marshals who made a very special visit to see Hayse in 2018.
Visitation will be held Monday, September 23rd 9:00AM – 10:00AM at Ridout’s Valley Chapel in Homewood followed by a service from 10:00AM – 10:30AM. Graveside service will follow at noon at Williamson Cemetery in Northport, AL.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions may be made to: The Greater Birmingham Humane Society, Wounded Warriors Project or St. Mark United Methodist Church in Vestavia. Online condolences may be made at www.ridoutsvalleychapel.com.
SHARE OBITUARYSHARE
v.1.11.6