James Vertis Stephens

1940 - 2023

A Homegoing Celebration Remembering the Life of Deacon James Vertis Stephens, 85, of Oxford, Alabama, will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Ridge Missionary Baptist Church in Hobson City, Alabama with Pastor Anthony Chatmon officiating. Interment will commence immediately following the service at Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery in Heflin, Alabama. There will be a public viewing for Deacon Stephens on Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 3-7 p.m. at Goodson Funeral Home in Anniston, Alabama. Professional services entrusted to S.M. Goodson Funeral Home and Crematory-Talladega. James was born to the late Mr. James A. Stephens and the late Mrs. Vera McDaniel Stephens on November 23, 1940, in Heflin, Alabama. Growing up in Heflin, James received his education in the Cleburne County School System, where he excelled academically and demonstrated his unwavering determination. He embarked on a journey of service to his beloved country, enlisting in the US Army and serving with honor for three years until receiving an honorable discharge. From an early age, James's faith in the Lord was evident. He united with Macedonia Baptist Church in Heflin, Alabama, and continued to serve and grow in his faith throughout his life. Relocating to California for work, he joined the Little Zion Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon and dedicated his time and energy to the church community. Upon returning to Alabama, he became an integral part of the Oak Ridge Missionary Baptist Church where he continued to serve as a deacon, and his unwavering devotion and wise counsel uplifted the congregation. On December 29, 1965, James found his soulmate in Gertrude Johnson, and their love story blossomed into over 58 years of a blessed marriage filled with joy, support, and unwavering commitment. Together, they built a legacy of love, faith, and family, and their bond serves as an inspiration to all who knew them. Deacon James Vertis Stephens, a beloved husband, devoted father, and faithful servant of God, bid farewell to this earthly life on December 8, 2023, surrounded by his loving family at Regional Medical Center in Anniston, Alabama. He was welcomed home by his parents, Mr. James A. and Vera Stephens, son, Donovan Stephens, sisters, Beatrice Dates, Rena Mae Sears, and Dorothy Siders. James leaves behind cherished memories that will forever be treasured by his devoted wife of 58 years, Gertrude Stephens; his loving daughter, Ameenah Stephens of Kennesaw, GA; his beloved sisters, Bessie (Neddie) Foster of Heflin and Mary J. Dark of Long Beach, CA; his dear brother, Wallace Stephens of Heflin. Within his extended family circle, James leaves behind nieces, nephews, cherished cousins, and a host of relatives and friends who have been touched by his kindness, humility, and unwavering faith. Reflecting upon the life of Deacon James Vertis Stephens, we are reminded of a man whose gentle spirit and unwavering faith were the foundations upon which he built his life. His dedication to his family, his church, and his community exemplified the virtues of love, compassion, and selflessness. He will be remembered as a man of deep faith, whose unwavering commitment to God and his fellow beings leaves an indelible mark upon our hearts. In this time of mourning, let us join together to celebrate the life of Deacon James Vertis Stephens and to offer solace and support to his beloved family. May his soul find eternal rest in the embrace of the Lord, and may his memory continue to inspire and guide us in our own journeys of faith and service. S.M. Goodson Funeral Home and Crematory Talladega Sheffton M Goodson 256.480.3177