James E. Stephens

OBITUARY

James Eldridge Stephens was born in Drewryville, Virginia on January 23, 1924. He was one of 13 children born to the late Walter and Willie Stephens, and was also fondly known as “Juke”. At the age of 12, he accepted Christ in his life. After attending public schools in Virginia, he then entered the army to serve during World War II, receiving an honorary discharge as 2nd Lieutenant. After military service, he received his Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Education from Hampton Institute in Virginia. Soon came marriage to Frances Turner in 1955, and from that union was born one son, Keith. James taught masonry in Beckley, West Virginia for several years, and then moved to Copiague NY. New York University soon conferred a Master of Arts degree as he began to teach Industrial Arts in Farmingdale, NY for a combined total of 27 years teaching. During this period, he received a Master’s in Education, eventually retiring in 1980. He was a master builder in the masonry and wood trades who found joy and took great pride in improving his surroundings.

Upon his arrival in NY, he joined Hollywood Baptist Church. Soon he joined St. John’s Baptist Church in Copiague, where he served on the Deacon & Trustee Boards, worked with the Men’s Ministry, taught Bible School, and sang in many choirs. He had a great love for vocal and instrumental music, and was a naturally gifted pianist who played by ear.

James became a Mason in 1969 and worked his way up to become Master of Hollywood Lodge #92 in Amityville, NY in 1978. He obtained his 32nd degree from the Long Island Consistory. Then he became a Royal Arch Mason and reached the level of Grand High Priest, and also served as Deputy Grand Lecturer of the 4th Masonic district, eventually obtaining the status of Emeritus Grand Lecturer of Prince Hall Masons, State of New York.

Other organizations and affiliations include: membership in the American Legion, the NAACP, the Pershing Rifles fraternity, and the Boy Scouts of America. As a founding member and past president of the Russell Court Block Association, Brother Stephens was able to help establish changes for the betterment of the community in which he lived for over 50 years.

He was family oriented and had a great love for helping the aged and nurturing the young, encouraging activity, progress and success, but most of all, obeying the Word of the Lord.

His hobbies included golfing, chess, hunting, fishing, gardening, writing poetry and music, crafts, watching the Yankees and Jeopardy. James often loved to travel by car or on cruises with his wife and friends, but the most joyous journey of his life was a visit to the Holy Land, where he performed communion with members of his tour group.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 63 years, Frances, his son Keith, sisters Rose Bland and Nan Leake of Laurel, Maryland, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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