John Charles Stevens

John C. Stevens—our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend—passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, at the age of 85, surrounded by his children. Born January 25, 1940, in Binghamton, New York, dad lived a life defined by dedication, service, and love. In 1980, he made Henderson, Nevada, his home, where he spent the rest of his years.

A proud officer in the United States Air Force, dad embodied duty, honor, and integrity throughout his 20-year military career. After graduating from the University of New Hampshire, he entered Officer Training School in 1963 at Lackland AFB, Texas—where he met our mother, Wanda. Rising to the rank of Major, his service took our family across the world: Andrews Joint Base in Washington, D.C. (where he served at the Pentagon), Langley AFB in Virginia, Ramstein and Wiesbaden in Germany, and Dhahran in Saudi Arabia (where he dined with kings), among others. His final assignment brought us to Nellis Air Force Base, where he retired in 1983.

During his service, dad earned numerous honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Joint Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award with four Oak Leaf Clusters, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal. Following retirement, he continued serving as a Civil Servant at Nellis AFB, where his intelligence and skillful negotiation left a lasting impact.

Our father’s greatest pride, however, was his family. He instilled in us the values of honor, integrity, and perseverance, and took joy in our successes. His generosity of spirit extended far beyond family, as he spent many years guiding youth through the Boy Scouts of America, helping to found Troop 309 in Green Valley. He also enjoyed giving back to his community through the Elks Lodge, where he was affectionately known as “Big John.” He served as Exalted Ruler, built countless friendships, and for many years tended bar at the Henderson lodge. He was also active with the Waco Scottish Rite, Karem Shriners Temple, Claremont Masonic Lodge, Stevens High School Alumni Association in Claremont, NH, and the American Legion of Henderson.

Though reserved in demeanor, dad was known for his dry wit, steady presence, and heart of gold. Those fortunate enough to know him discovered not only a man of character but also a man who brought laughter, loyalty, and warmth into their lives.

Dad was preceded in death by his parents, Marshall and Helen Stevens; his brother, Jim Stevens; and his sister, Karen Boucher He was devoted to and is survived by his family including: his Children Diana and Jay and their spouses Paul and Michelle respectively, Grandson Shaun Jackson and his wife Shelby; Granddaughter Lindsay Jackson; Granddaughter Chelsea Stevens; and a Great-Granddaughter Ophelia Jackson. To the world, he was one person but to us, he was our world.

Our family will hold a funeral service in his honor at Davis Funeral Home and Memorial Park on September 19, 2025, at 9:00 am, followed by a graveside service at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, NV at 10:40 am. At his request, Taps will be played in honor of his military service. All those whose lives were touched by our father are invited to join in commemorating a legendary man that made a difference in the lives of those around him.

Dads life was one of service, humor, and deep love. While we grieve his passing, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind—the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the countless lives he touched. May he rest in peace.