James Warner Stephens

Jim was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on November 18, 1926 to James Harold Stephens and Erlene Warner Stephens.

Jim grew up in Indianapolis and served his country as a member of the US Army during WWII. Jim later attended Purdue University where he earned a degree in Chemical Engineering. In his career as a chemical engineer Jim designed refineries around the world and was an early expert in mainframe computers. He began his career at Schenley Liquor’s pharmaceutical division where he met and married his first wife, Ann. They moved to Baytown, Texas, where Jim worked at several petroleum companies in Houston, including Shell Oil and Pace Engineering. Jim traveled the world, with memorable excursions through Norway and England. Everywhere he went Jim made friends and pursued his true passions - acquiring mystery and historical books and consuming excellent beers.

Jim retired from chemical engineering to care for Ann until she passed. He then moved to Lakeway after marrying his second wife, Marjorie, where he enjoyed golf and gardening while continuing to cultivate his passions for reading mysteries and drinking beer. After Marjorie’s passing, Jim moved to Austin to be near his stepdaughter and son-in-law, Mary and James. Jim continued to make friends and enjoy life accompanied by his beloved dog, Willie.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Stephens; wives, Ann Stephens and Marjorie Greer Stephens; and son, Johnny Stephens.

Jim is survived by his loving stepchildren, Mary Elizabeth Ramsey, James Ray Alexander, Sara Ann Ramsey; and step-grandchildren, James Hearin and Callie Hearin McDonald; sister-in-law, Cathy Stephens; niece, Shirley Stephens; and nephew, Robbie Stephens.

In his later years, Jim was blessed to have the company of a team of dedicated caregivers, including the wonderful Daisy Graves.

Jim’s kindness and good humor blessed everyone that he knew - he will be missed.

A visitation for Jim will be held Friday, April 25, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, 2620 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim's memory may be made to Austin Pets Alive!, 1156 West Cesar Chavez, Austin, Texas 78703, https://www.austinpetsalive.org/donate.