Obituary of Jim Stephens

Donald James “Jim” Stephens, a devoted family man, generous friend, and passionate outdoorsman, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, at the age of 84. Known for his kind heart, steady presence, and devotion to his family, Jim leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, service, and quiet strength. Born on March 6, 1941, in Montauk, Missouri, Jim was raised with traditional values rooted in family, hard work, and community. He was baptized as a young boy at Tan Vat in the Current River—a defining moment in his lifelong walk with Christ. Jim started his education at Alred, a one-room schoolhouse, where he was taught by his father Dyle for several years—an experience that shaped both his education and his deep respect for family and learning. Jim would then go on to attend Licking High School, graduating in 1959. On August 26, 1972, Jim married his loving wife, Sharon. Together, they shared 52 years of marriage built on faith, loyalty, and love, and raised a family that was always his greatest pride. Throughout his life, Jim took great pride in every job he held. He began his career with State Farm in Columbia, Missouri, before returning home to work at Montauk State Park. There, he found joy in leading trail rides on his beloved horse, Rusty, alongside the Hagler Boys—a time he remembered fondly. Notably, Jim and the Hagler Boys led the first organized Montauk trail ride, guiding over 800 horses. Jim will be most highly remembered for his many years as a dedicated Parts-man at Kissiar Equipment, where he provided expert support to customers and took pride in selling John Deere products. With his deep mechanical knowledge, unwavering work ethic, and genuine care for others, Jim earned the trust and respect of both coworkers and customers. Even in retirement, his passion never faded—he could often be found in the hayfield, completely at ease behind the wheel of a tractor. Later, Jim worked in construction, proudly helping build the barracks and hospital at Fort Leonard Wood. He went on to manage the MFA, supporting local farmers with the same reliability and dedication that defined his career. He also enjoyed driving a hotshot truck, meticulously planning every route, and eventually transitioned into vehicle sales, where his honest approach and personable nature left a lasting impression on his customers. Jim found true joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren, whether fishing, hunting, cheering them on, or simply listening to their stories. He especially cherished teaching them the values of patience, respect for nature, and tradition. He had a deep love for hunting and enjoyed listening to his dogs run rabbits and coyotes. Passing down his love of deer hunting became a family legacy that continues through his children and grandchildren. Jim’s love for his community was evident in his generous spirit. He, along with his brother-in-law, Wesley, donated the land that became Deer Lick Park and the public pool. He also served faithfully on both the Licking and Shafer Cemetery Boards for over a decade. Jim was a man who gave without expecting anything in return. Whether helping a neighbor, supporting a friend, or guiding his family, he lived by quiet example. His strength came not from words, but from consistent action—reliable, steady, and full of heart. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Stephens; his children Mark (Loree) Duncan, Matt (Janell) Duncan, Jami (Jim) Werkmeister, and Jimmie (Amber) Stephens; his grandchildren Dustin (Chelsea) Duncan, Wyatt (Bre) Duncan; Brandi (James) Huff, Sidney Duncan, Lane (Hannah) Duncan; Alex, Jace and Brooklyn Werkmeister; Aubrie (Landon), Austin (Riley), Avery and Audie Stephens; his great grandchildren Axel and Sloan Huff; and Kade Duncan; and his siblings Peggy Friend, Patsy (Wesley) Kissiar, Joyce Price, Jeanne Bates, and JR (Christina) Stephens as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dyle and Iona Stephens; father-in-law, Weldon Austin; mother-in-law, Wylma Austin; and brothers-in-law, David Friend, Laurel Bates and J. Max Price. Though he has taken his final walk through the woods and passed down his last hunting tale, Jim’s legacy lives on in the laughter of his grandchildren and the lives of all he touched—his family, his friends, and his community. Rest at peace in the arms of the Lord, Jim. You fought the good fight, finished the race with grace, and were truly one of His good and faithful servants. A visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m. on June 28, 2025, at the United Methodist Church in Licking, Missouri, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to New Hope Cemetery in memory of Jim.