James Francis Stevens

James F. Stevens - April 19, 1949 - May 13, 2025

The world said goodbye to an icon...a living legend...a larger-than-life man...a proud Air Force veteran, on May 13, 2025. James Francis Xavier Stevens (fondly known as Jim, Jimmy, and to some, Omar!) fought many courageous battles over the 76 years we were blessed and honored to have him among us but succumbed to complications of double lung pneumonia. He was the cherished "life partner" of Carole Osterhout, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many...all over the United States.

Jim was known for many things, including his kindness, intellect, athleticism, creativity, passion for all things family and sports; and offered guidance, wisdom and unwavering support to all who knew him. He will be deeply and earnestly missed by all who had the privilege of spending time with him...especially his granddaughters, known affectionately as "the littles".

Jim was predeceased by his loving parents - Margaret A. and Harold E. Stevens, and a brother-in-law - Greg Redmond. He leaves behind many cherished family and friends who will miss his presence, including partner for life - Carole Osterhout, Janet Jourdan - Mother to both Daughter - Jamie L. Mohler (Brian) and Son - Jason Fransico, Grand Daughters - Kiley Dean, McKinley Mohler and Keiley Mohler, Sister - Marcia A. Redmond (Auburn, NY), Brothers - Mark R. Stevens (Cindy) of Clearwater, FL, and Scott M. Stevens (Karen) of Omaha, NE, canine companion - Charlie, nieces, nephews, cousins and great friends.

Jim enjoyed a long and prosperous career in the insurance industry, which began with him following in his father's footsteps selling Life Insurance with Pacific Life, followed by an incredible 12+ year career with Dun & Bradstreet Plan Services, where he rose to the position of Chief Marketing Officer. And finally, the founder of Stevens Insurance Brokerage Services (SIBs), a full-service insurance brokerage agency based on Clearwater, FL. He retired in 2004 to spend more time with family, friends, and golf, not necessarily in that order, and got to witness the birth of his three precious granddaughters and watch them grow into young ladies. The highlight of Jim's weeks was picking up the "littles" from school and taking them to Menchies for "waffle Wednesday", along with watching them perform, cheer, and play flag football.

Jimmy was very generous with his time and volunteered and/or led many organizations including the Jaycees, Leukemia Society, Chi Chi's Golf Course, and the Tampa Bay Association of Health Underwriters. He was also an avid fan of Florida based professional sports teams including the Buccaneers, Lightning and Rays, and of course, an avid golfer!

He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1970, and after serving four years, enrolled in college at what was then St. Petersburg Junior College. From there he transferred to the University of South Florida (USF) where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing & Management. He was a proud USF alum and Football season ticket holder up until the time of his passing. He continued his studies during his career, completing coursework offered through the prestigious Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, and the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU).

There will be a celebration of the life of Jim Stevens at the Screaming Jalapeno located in Safety Harbor, FL, on June 14, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 P.M. EST. All who knew and loved him are welcome. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to causes that were near and dear to Jim, including the Tampa Bay Humane Society, Dogs, Inc (Bradenton, FL), and the Florida Veterans Assistance Association.

The Screaming Jalapeno

100 Main Street, Suite 109

Safety Harbor, FL 34695

(727-223-9696

thescreamingjalapeno@gmail.com