John A. Stephens

John Arthur Stephens, born September 7, 1957, in Decatur County, Georgia, was the firstborn son of the late Albert and Bessie Mae Stephens. He enlisted in the United States Army after graduating from Bainbridge High School in 1975. Following his military service, he was employed at BASF (formerly Engelhard) for approximately 30 years.

As a youth, John was baptized at St. Paul Primitive Baptist Church. During his adult life, he became a member of Mt. Moriah #2 Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Edmond Howard Jr. John was ordained as a Deacon on December 20, 2015, under the leadership of Pastor Hayward Teague. He took his role as a Deacon very seriously and was truly faithful to his calling. He served diligently as an Usher, a member of the Male Choir, and a Sunday School Teacher—often being the first to arrive at church. He truly loved THE LORD, and it could be felt in his prayers and testimony.

John and Catherine were united in Holy Matrimony on May 28, 1996. Together they raised two children, Tinischa (Eric Sr.) Holmes of Austell, GA, and DeFrance (Ebony) Gurley of Powder Springs, GA.

Many people know that John had a great love for fishing. He also enjoyed watching a good game of football when his favorite college and professional teams, the Georgia Bulldogs and the Dallas Cowboys, were playing.

GOD called him Home on Friday, April 25, 2025. Cherishing John’s memory alongside his loving wife and children are five grandchildren: Aysha Holmes, Eric Holmes Jr., Tyler Holmes, Ean Holmes, and Jaiden Gurley; one godson, Christopher Williams (U.S. Army, Germany); and Michael Smith of Attapulgus, GA, who was like a grandson to him and brought great joy to his life.

He is also survived by his siblings: Randy (Susanne, deceased) Stephens of Palm Springs, FL, Albert (Sherry) Stephens of Havana, FL, Betty (Dwight) Rice of Augusta, GA, Tammy (Bruce) Clay of Auburndale, FL, and Alphonso (Bebe Thomas) Stephens of Attapulgus, GA.

John was preceded in death by his sister, Linda Young; his mother-in-law, Pecola Larkin; and his father-in-law, Deacon Tommie Larkin.

His cherished sisters-in-law include Annie (James) Shumake of Bainbridge, GA, Brenda (Willie) Lurry of Climax, GA, Diana (Richard) Guess, Cheryl (Jimmy) Jackson, both of St. Petersburg, FL, and Angela (Tony) Williams of Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Also treasuring his memory are a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.