James Stephens

James "Jim" "Goody" Stephens, 81, of New Braunfels, Texas, passed away on August 2, 2023. He embarked on his final adventure, leaving behind a trail of cherished memories and a legacy of goodness and laughter.

Born on February 25, 1942, in Salamanca, New York, Jim was the master of fun. With a twinkle in his eye and a heart full of joy, he brightened the lives of all who knew him. His parents, Fred and Helen Stephens, surely passed on their spirit of happiness to their beloved son.

Jim's love story with his wife, Ginger, spanned an incredible 58 years. Together, they created a lifetime of precious moments and shared countless laughs. Alongside Ginger, Jim is survived by his daughter Sheila (David) Laigle of New Braunfels, Texas, his sister Sharon (Paul) Jusko of Hamburg, New York, and many cherished cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his three sons Paul, Jon, and Steven Stephens, his sister Linda (Jon) Schoonmaker, and his parents, who are now reunited in the great beyond.

Throughout his life, Jim was a true jack-of-all-trades. From his early days at St. Patrick's Primary School to his graduation from Salamanca High School in the Class of 1960, Jim's thirst for knowledge and adventure never wavered. He embarked on a career that took him to the B&O Railroad, the Youth Camp in Great Valley, New York, and finally, the Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Department, where he retired in 1995.

Retirement couldn't contain Jim's boundless energy and social spirit. He dedicated his golden years to spreading joy through volunteering. Whether it was lending a helping hand at the Loveland Police Department, bringing smiles to the Hearts and Horses Therapeutic Riding program, or serving the community as a proud member of the Lyons Club in Loveland, Colorado, Jim was always there to brighten someone's day. In Zephyrhills, Florida, he managed the Volunteer Security at the Sundance Community ensuring that mischief was kept at bay.

Jim's easy going nature was matched only by his unwavering faith. He found solace and inspiration in the loving embrace of St. Patrick's Parish in Salamanca, New York, and St. Joseph's in Zephyrhills, Florida. His misadventures and merry spirit surely brought a smile to the heavens above.

When it came to hobbies, Jim was a master of spreading cheer. He had a knack for sending greeting cards, making every holiday, birthday, and anniversary a memorable occasion. He brought smiles and laughter to the lives of his loved ones, one clever pun at a time.

While we bid farewell to Jim, we know that his spirit will forever live on in our hearts. A memorial service to celebrate his life and share stories of his legendary escapades will be determined at a later date. Until then, let us remember Jim's mischievous grin, his infectious laughter, and the joy he brought to our lives.