Obituary of James "Jim" Edward Stephens

James “Jim” Edward Stephens, 75, of Dade City, FL, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, May 30, 2021, after a long battle with cancer. Formerly of Rushville, IN, Jim moved to Tampa in 1960. He served in the U.S. Army, loved golfing, watching football and NASCAR and spending time with family and friends. To say he was a good man is an understatement, he was the best. He didn’t have a selfish bone in his body. He was the man who had lifelong friendships, would drop anything for anyone at any time to help, he remembered everyone’s birthday and always picked up the phone to wish them a good one, he loved his wife, his kids and grandkids, and family with all his heart. He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him. Jim was preceded in death by his father, William Stephens, Sr.; mother, Evelyn Van Allen; sister, Shirley Planker; brother, William Stephens, Jr.; brother, Thomas Stephens, Sr. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Karen Stephens of Dade City, FL; daughter, Jennifer Watkins of Tampa, FL; daughter, Julie Stephens Beccarelli of Dade City, FL; daughter, Ashley Rosa of Brandon, FL; son, Jimmy Stephens of Tampa, FL; grandchildren, Alex Thompson, Gavin Rosa, Deacon Rosa and Aiden Beccarelli; brother, Michael Stephens of Tampa, FL; brother David Selmier of Ramona, CA; sister, Alice Jean Roos of Oxford, MA. Jim is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and friends. A small service will be held for family only on Friday, June 11, 2021, at the Florida National Cemetery, in Bushnell, Florida. In lieu of flowers, please raise a glass and toast the heavens, because Heaven gained a great one!