Jesse Ray Stevens

Jesse Ray Stevens died peacefully at UNC Johnston Health, Clayton, NC on Tuesday, December 12, 2023. Surviving to cherish his memory is his devoted wife of 65 years, Barbara Johnson Stevens, his loving daughter, Kelli Stevens Padgett, his siblings: Eloise Stevens Price, Dr. Sherrill Stevens, Geraldine Stevens Murphy, Rev. Brantley Stevens, Annie Stevens Nichols (J.W.), Diane Stevens Coats (Larry); sister-in-law, June Chaffin Stevens and a host of nephews, nieces and friends.

Jesse was born on September 16, 1935, the sixth child of the late Almon and Dora Austin Stevens of Clayton, NC. He was also predeceased by sisters Maloa Stevens Benson and Jean Stevens Hobbs, and brother, Lt. Col. Wade Stevens. He graduated from Wilson’s Mills High School in 1953.

Jesse was a proud Korean War veteran, serving in the U.S. Army from April, 1954 to April, 1957. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal and remained a dedicated member of the American Legion Post 71 for 32 years.

Jesse enjoyed a distinguished career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a Civil Engineer Technician, retiring in 1993 after 34 years of loyal service with an excellent record. After retirement, he and Barbara enjoyed many years traveling with the Clayton Senior Travel Club. Jesse was an avid fan of UNC Tar Heels basketball and tried his best to help them win as a ‘couch’ coach.

Jesse was a loving husband and father, a beloved brother and uncle and friend to many. He was a committed Christian and a faithful member of Mount Calvary Baptist Church for 65 years. He was sustained by his faith and was an inspiration to many in his long battle with Multiple Sclerosis.

A service to celebrate his life and to affirm his faith and hope will be held at Mount Calvary Baptist Church, Clayton, NC on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 11:00am. The family will receive friends from 10:00am to 11:00am immediately prior to the service. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park, Clayton, NC.

McLaurin Funeral Home, Clayton, NC is assisting the family with arrangements.

Flowers are welcome or memorial gifts are suggested to Mount Calvary Baptist Church.