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John Stevenson Obituary
Johnny was predeceased by his parents, Leonard O'Rion Stevenson and Laura Grant Stevenson. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Susan Booth Stevenson of the home; two daughters, Shelley Stevenson Smith (Todd) of Swansboro, NC, and Booth Stevenson Parker (Wood IV) of Morehead City, NC; grandson, Ernest Linwood Parker V of Morehead City, NC; brother, Jerry Scott Stevenson (Christine) of Jacksonville, NC; nieces, Dee Booth Bray (Matt) of Fuquay-Varina, NC, Alexis Stevenson Worthington (Brendan) of Jacksonville, NC; nephews, Larry Kent Neal Jr. (Traci) of Spencer, NC, Kelly Booth Neal (Jennifer) of Jacksonville, NC; Barringer Grant Warlick Stevenson of Jacksonville; and his beloved dogs, Sunshine, Bevan, Winnie, Sadie, Luke, and Evey.
His passion for cars and love of speed and racing competition led to the creation of Stevenson Motorsports, competing in the IMSA Weathertech Series (formerly the Rolex Grand Am Series) and the Continental Sportscar Series. What began as a hobby, with him as a driver in the races, developed into a well-respected and winning race team led by top professional sports car drivers.
Because of his love for Onslow County and Eastern NC, Johnny chose to stay in this community and rear his family. His generosity has supported many charities and organizations over the years, usually anonymously. He was a great champion of Hope for the Warriors, and it was his initial donation that helped ignite the program. Because of his love and compassion for all animals, he financially helped local and state animal rescues and groups on a regular basis. Johnny's leadership in this community over the years helped Jacksonville and the surrounding area grow in a positive way.
Johnny was a member of St. Peter's By the Sea Episcopal Church, Swansboro, and a former member of St. Anne's Episcopal Church, Jacksonville. He served on the Board of Directors for the Jacksonville Rotary Club (Paul Harris Fellow), First Citizen's Bank (Jacksonville), Onslow County Caring Community Foundation, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, and the Jacksonville/Onslow Economic Development Commission. He was a member of the Military Affairs Committee, Jacksonville Country Club, and Crow Hill Hunting Club. Automotive involvement included Owner/President of the Stevenson Automotive Group, two terms on the Honda National Dealer Council, Founder/Past President of the Honda Dealers of the Carolinas Advertising Association, member of the Board of Directors for the NC Dealers Choice Insurance Co., Owner of Stevenson Motorsports, 2013 recipient of the Bob Snodgrass Award of Excellence presented by the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series, 2014 recipient of the Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Award, 2016 Torch Award for Business Ethics presented by the Eastern North Carolina Better Business Bureau, and 2016 Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce Civic Honoree Award.
Johnny died October 16, 2017. His passing leaves a void in the fabric of our community and a hole in our hearts.
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, October 19 at Jones Funeral Home in Jacksonville. The service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, October 20 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Jacksonville. In lieu of flowers and because of his love for this community, memorials to one of the following local organizations would be appreciated: Onslow County Animal Services, 244 Georgetown Road, Jacksonville, NC 28540; Onslow County Caring Community Foundation Chairman's Challenge, 3684-C Henderson Drive, Jacksonville, 28546; or St. Peter's By the Sea Episcopal Church, 503 W. Broad Street, Swansboro, NC 28584.
Electronic condolences may be left for the family at Jonesfh.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Stevenson
Gary White
October 14, 2024
I still remember my first day of work at the Hyundai dealership where you had your office at that time, and you made it a point to stop by and welcome me to the Stevenson team. I worked in several different management positions at multiple locations for you and retired in 2015. Thank you for the opportunity and may you eternally rest in peace.
David McAlee
October 12, 2019
A considerate person, making this world better for having been here. A success for becoming closer to what his Creator intended. I am privileged and grateful to know him.
Parker Parrott
December 18, 2017
Rest in peace and to the family he was a very special person and he is in heaven waiting on all of us.
October 29, 2017
Our deepest sympathy & prayers to the family. Beth & Rick Williamson
Lara Horn
October 29, 2017
You will be missed by all! God bless you and your family! A star shining bright in the night sky!
Carroll Overton
October 24, 2017
Old friend that will be missed
Nancy Hill
October 24, 2017
Mr. Stevenson was a person who I looked up to and was truly one of my favorite clients I had in my 33 years providing insurance to dealerships. He was truly a man of class who will always be held with my utmost respect.
James Henry
October 23, 2017
I met Mr. Stevenson briefly back in July of this year. Prayers and comfort for his family and the entire staff at Stevenson Automotive.
Steve Jukoski
October 23, 2017
Johnny was a classmate at JHS. He was always smiling/laughing and definitely enjoyed life. Extremely happy he was part of my fun memories of high school. He was never without that grin.
Kathy Dodge
October 23, 2017
Jon will be missed from the Dodge family. We are praying for your hearts.
David McAlee
October 22, 2017
Oh man ---Susan, Johnny was a nice young man in high school who grew into the better version of himself. He was always providing service to others and will be missed for that goodness. Rest peacefully, Johnny.
Bea Oettinger
October 21, 2017
We have been residents of Charlotte since 2008, but enjoyed our relationship with the Stevenson family for many years at St. Anne's Episcopal Church. Melvin, my husband, and I are so saddened by Johnny's death. Love and sincere prayers for all of the family.... Bea Oettinger
Robin Pratt
October 21, 2017
THAT MAN WAS SUCCESS
who has lived well
laughed often and loved much;
who gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children;
who filled his niche and aqccomplished his task,
who leaves the world better than he found it, whether by an improved faster car, true competition, a perfect poem or a recued soul;
who never lacked appreciation of the earths beauty or failed to express it.
Who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.
we will always remember his true kindness
Sue Sessoms-Hersey
October 20, 2017
I met Johnny in the summer of 1966. He was always a gentleman and a lot of fun. A good friend that I never forgot. God bless his wonderful family.
October 20, 2017
Susan,
You and your family are in our thoughts
and prayers. Much love, Linda and Robbie Davis, Columbia, South Carolina.
Tremain Exford
October 20, 2017
My sincerest condolences. The Stevenson family are in my thoughts and prayers.
claude collins
October 20, 2017
prayers for family
Judy Garrett
October 20, 2017
My deepest sympathy to you, Susan, and Family. I will not forget the sympathy Johnny expressed to me regarding Aaron's passing nor will I forget dancing with him at our reunion.
My thoughts and prayers go with you
Judy Garrett
The Kay Family Excel Body Works
October 20, 2017
The community lost a fine man this week. May he always be remembered for his generosity and love for Jacksonville.
Todd Bulvanoski
October 20, 2017
I worked for Johnny when he first bought the old Padgett Toyota dealership. He was a genuinely nice man and gave all of us a fair shake when he bought the business, which I appreciated. Mr. Stevenson and his family are pretty high on my list of nice and honest people. My sincerest sympathies go out to his family and his entended family all over.
RIP.
Edward Flinchum
October 19, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Kairyx Garcia
October 19, 2017
There aren't many word that can lighten a heavy heart during moments like this. But may the Lord bring comfort to your family! I will continue to keep Mr. Johnny O. Stevenson in my prayers as well as his beloved family.
Robert Semales
October 19, 2017
I was a Lincoln Mercury Rep that called on Johnny & L O his father in 1977. Johnny was a great guy like his dad. I had great respect for the family. My condolences to the whole family. Bob Semales
Tisha Mccoy
October 19, 2017
I pray for peace for the Stevenson family during this terrible time. Mr. Stevenson was a wonderful man to work for. I am so sorry for your loss.
Anneliese (Johnson) Billings
October 19, 2017
My deepest condolences to the entire Stevenson family. As a Stevenson Automotive employee, I fondly remember Mr. Stevenson. I am truly sorry for your loss. Please know you are in my prayers.
Tony Albertson
October 19, 2017
Johnny was a great horse show father to his daughters. I have never met a nicer man. He was a great sport and inspiration.
He and Susan were the owners of my most successful horse. They always put the horse first and never questioned my judgement. They were a delight to work for.
Tony Albertson
Alvin Sanders
October 19, 2017
God Bless your family.
Alvin Sanders
October 19, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Gary & Willa White
October 19, 2017
May God bless the Stevenson family during this difficult time and we send our most sincere thoughts and prayers to all of you.
Bob Page
October 19, 2017
It is so very sad to lose a boyhood friend. May God bless and keep you Johnny
Bobby) Page
Ellen Mason
October 19, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Iam so blessed to be a member of the Stevenson Automotive Family at Honda and Acura in Wilmington NC28403.
Johnny always treated me as an extended member of the Stevenson Family. I will always remember him as a happy and kind man. May God bless you and yours.
Ellen Mason
Stevenson Honda and Acura
821 S. College Rd.
Wilmington,NC 28403
Kathleen and Michael Moeller
October 19, 2017
Fold him, Lord, in Your arms and let him be a messenger of love between our pierced human hearts and You.
Dear Susan - Your travel buddies on the Baltic Cruise will never forget the wonderful time with you and Johnny. The story of your little sports car being sold for a big green sedan while on your honeymoon brings a smile whenever we think of you two. We don't understand why bad things happen to good people but we hope and pray that some comfort and peace may come from knowing how much you two are loved and honored. Love, Kathy & Mike
Peggy Ambrose
October 19, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family...
Kathy Mitchell
October 18, 2017
As a Stevenson Motorsports fan, I send prayers and wish blessings to the Stevenson family. May God be with you during this sad time.
Joe Pilman
October 18, 2017
Condolences and prayers for the Stevenson family. I will always have great memories working for him. He always brought out the best in someone. The funnel is full Johnny!
Constance McDaniel
October 18, 2017
Prayers go out to the family. May God be with you during your time of sorrow.
Linda Welch
October 18, 2017
I met Johnny for the first time at our DZ reunion in July, 2017. He impressed me as a gracious, friendly host who made me feel very comfortable in his beautiful home. He taught me the proper way to eat softshell crab! Truly a man of distinction! Prayers for his family at this difficult time.
jay jaynes
October 18, 2017
Stevenson Family our hearts and prayers go out to you. John was a beacon of light for coastal Carolina.
Jay and Cindy Jaynes
Savannah Ga
Julie Thomas
October 18, 2017
Prayers go out to the Stevenson Family and all of the employees who work for him. He was a wonderful man to work for and thank him for the opportunity to be a part of the Stevenson Family.
Bob Roussel
October 18, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Stevenson Family in this time of great sorrow.
Jim Dorn
October 18, 2017
Rest. In. Peace. You. Are. A very good. Friend. God. Bless
Carolyn Giles
October 18, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Betty Ross
October 18, 2017
I pray for peace and comfort for the entire Stevenson family!!!
Denis Tanney
October 18, 2017
My heart is saddened for the loss of such a fine gentleman who was always there for me and so many others, no matter what. He was a leader and a great personality who filled me with inspiration and laughter at times. I will very much miss him. My deepest sympathy goes out to dear Susan and all the Stevenson family.
Gary and Robin Pratt
October 18, 2017
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Rodney Lammers
October 18, 2017
My condolences to the Stevenson Family. My thoughts are with you. Thank you Johnny for the opportunity you gave me at Stevenson Toyota.
Denis Tanney
October 18, 2017
It saddens me terribly to see such a fine gentleman pass. I admired Johnny. He always supported my efforts with the team no matter what. He will be missed and my deepest sympathies go out to Susan and the entire Stevenson family. - Denis L. Tanney
Cindy Wozniak
October 18, 2017
Thank you Mr. Stevenson for making it possible to adopt my black cat at one of your adoption events! This poor injured animal has brought us great joy. God Bless You!
Randy Ruppert
October 18, 2017
Prayers for all family members in this time of sadness and grief. I had the privilege of working for Mr. Stevenson and am saddened by his passing.
October 18, 2017
Susan: God Bless you as you adjust to this change in your life. Johnny was a part of the fabric of all our lives as you well know but having you by his side kept him whole. As you adjust do not hesitate to reach out to your DZ sisters for words of comfort and laughter. Love, Kathy Coolidge
William Stevenson
October 18, 2017
I met John and Susan several years ago at The Glen during a pit lane walk prior to a race. We talked about Watkins Glen racing history as well as the current Stevenson Motorsports team at length. John was the perfect 'southern gentleman' to a complete stranger. I became an instant fan! I am sorry sorry that he has passed.
many race wins!
Jim Lutz
October 18, 2017
a respected race team leader and true gentleman! honored to work with him, prayers of support for the family
Jim Lutz
Shelton and Mary Kellum
October 18, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jeffrey Fink
October 18, 2017
Our condolences to the Stevenson Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless
Rena Roethlinger
October 18, 2017
My heart and prayers go out to the Stevenson family and their friends. I never had the honor of meeting Mr. Stevenson, but he was a very close friend of my daughters grandparents, as well as my uncle and cousin.
Robin Jones Smith
October 18, 2017
I am so sad in learning of Johnnys passing. I hope his family takes comfort in knowing that he was so loved and respected. Jerry, my heart goes out to you.
Jere Conover
October 18, 2017
Johnny was always good to me and I
respected him greatly...RIP.
Bob McCall
October 18, 2017
To the Stevenson Family, My condolences, I enjoyed watching Johnny grow up in Jax. He was a true young gentleman.
Kristy Jones
October 18, 2017
My heart is saddened at the loss of such a great man. I met Johnny back in 1999 and he was never anything but kind Fair and someone I always enjoyed seeing walking through the dealership. My heart, my prayers go to his family. He will be very much missed. God bless
Patsy Cole
October 18, 2017
I am so about your loss you are in my prayers
October 17, 2017
so sorry to hear about johnnie prayers to the family
Molly Driver
October 17, 2017
To the Stevenson family, may God bless you all during this time of healing. I am truly so sad for you all. What a terrible loss for all that knew Johnny. I'm glad I was among those that had the chance to know him. GODSPEED JOHNNY!!!!
Leslie Alger
October 17, 2017
I am heartbroken by this loss. So many amazing memories of my childhood. . . I'll never forget Mr. Stevenson. Much love to you all during your time of grief.
God bless you,
Leslie Alger (Cobb)
Darrell Winstead
October 17, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Carroll and Pam Hart
October 17, 2017
A man of stellar character with a loving, generous heart whose gifts enriched many people and all creatures great and small. His beautiful heart grew ours bigger. It was our great honor to know and love him. His loss is profound, however, he left us and the world with an invaluable legacy.
John Stevenson will be treasured forever
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Jones Funeral Home - Jacksonville303 Chaney Avenue, Jacksonville, NC 28540
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