Stephen Wessell

1943 - 2024

JONESBORO - James "Steve" Stephen Wessell, 81, passed away on Veteran's Day, Nov. 11, 2024, joining the Lord surrounded by his family, at Baptist East in Memphis. He was born Oct. 28, 1943, to Joseph and Marjorie Brothers Wessell in Paragould.

Steve was a proud man with a strong voice. He enjoyed studying the Bible and teaching his family. He was a graduate of Paragould High School and attended college in Conway at Arkansas Teachers College.

He worked hard as a special agent for Blue Cross Blue Shield for over 25 years. He spent 38 years serving our country in the United States Air Force Reserve in the 96th Aerial Support Squadron at Little Rock Air Force Base. He was steadfast in his beliefs and was a proud American.

He was a faithful member of Washington Avenue Church of Christ in Jonesboro. He enjoyed spending time on the golf course and the fellowship he had with his friends. Steve was a true role model of putting Christ first, followed by family and commitment. He loved being "Pop" to his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joe D. Wessell Sr., and his mother, Ellen Brothers Wessell.

He is survived by his bride of almost 48 years, Mary K. Hogue Wessell of the home; two sons, Scott Wessell of Pocahontas and David (Stephanie) Wessell of Brookland; one daughter, Jennifer Wessell of Jonesboro; a brother, Joe D (Reba) Wessell Jr. of Paragould; his grandchildren, Kate (Josh) Brudnicki of Dyersburg, Tenn., Kayden Wessell of Pocahontas, and Leah Wessell, Layne Wessell, Jason Wessell and Cole Wessell, all of Brookland; and great-grandchildren, Keaton and Jack Brudnicki of Dyersburg, as well as many nieces, nephews and loved ones.

Memorial services to celebrate his life will be held at 11 a.m. today, Nov. 16, at Washington Avenue Church of Christ in Jonesboro with Aaron Dodson officiating, followed by memorial honors by the Little Rock AFB Honor Guard.

Services have been entrusted to Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home.