James Marion Stephens, Sr.

James Marion Stephens, Sr., affectionately known as "Jimmy," passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024, in Holden, Louisiana, surrounded by family and loved ones. Born on August 28, 1945, in Fort Myers, Florida, Jimmy lived a life marked by dedication to his family, faith, and community.

As the founder, owner, and operator of A-Best Specialties, Jimmy embodied the spirit of hard work and entrepreneurship. His career was not just about business; it was a testament to his commitment to providing for his family and contributing to his community.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Jimmy's warmth and kindness touched the lives of many. He found joy in hunting, fishing, racing, and most importantly, cherishing moments with his church family, friends, and loved ones. His devotion to his faith was evident through his enjoyment of reading the Bible and sharing the message of God with others. Jimmy's light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who knew him, and he will forever be greatly missed.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Alice Stephens, and his children: James "Lil Jimmy" Stephens Jr. (Amy Stephens), Royce Odam (Angie Odam), Christopher "Chris" Stephens (Kimberly "Kimmie" Stephens), Mary Amanda Ballard, Jennifer Bush (Robert Bush), Christina Thoms (Joshua Thoms), Rhonda Randall (Tommy Randall), and James Hembree. Jimmy cherished his role as a father and took pride in his grandchildren, including Vanessa Lee (Chris Lee), Jessica Stephens, Jimmy The 3rd Stephens, Jacob Wayne Stephens, Lindsey Marie Stephens, D'Sha Hutchinson (Brayden Hutchinson), Ricky Ballard (Jordan Ballard), Lanie Ballard, Vanessica Purvis, Flavya Purvis, Zander Purvis, Jonathan "Jay Jay" Collins Jr., Caleb Thoms, Levi Thoms, Skyler Mitchell (Ashley Mitchell), Mallory Odam, Colby Odam, Blaine Odam, Braydan Odam, Nicholas Stephens, Devon Stephens, Joseph Shumake (Heather Shumake), Stephanie Bray (C.J. Bray), Alison Price (Jeremy Price), and Joshua Lumpkin. He was also the proud great-grandfather to Braxton and Carlton Lee, Keith and Daisy Hutchinson, Amelia, Colton and Baby Ricky Ballard, Easterly and Brad Odam, Colby, Keaton and Kazleigh Mitchell, Braelyn, Carson, Sawyer and Brenley Shumake, and Kannon, Landon, and Paisley Bray, as well as Hailey, Brianna, Dallton and Maddi Price.

Jimmy is also survived by his siblings: Shirley Barfield, Janie Loxley (Daniel Payne), Johnny Stephens, and Alice Thomas (James Thomas), alongside sisters-in-law Cheryl Stephens and Linda Stephens.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elisha and Martha Stephens, as well as his children Denny Stephens and Jammie Stephens. He was also preceded in death by siblings Billy Stephens, J.C. Stephens, Bunkie Stephens, Kay Stephens, and Faye Roberts. Additionally, he is preceded by sister-in-law Sheila Stephens and brother-in-law Joe Barfield.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Visitation at Fundamental Baptist Church, 24240 S. Frost Road, Livingston, Louisiana, on Thursday, December 19, 2024 from 10AM until 1PM.  The Funeral Service will begin at 1PM.  Interment to follow at Fundamental Baptist Church Cemetery.

Jimmy's legacy of love and kindness will endure through his family and the countless lives he touched throughout his journey. He is now at peace, having gone home to be with the Lord.