Joseph Nathan Stephens

My eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord; my eyes have seen the heavenly gates open before me. My heavenly home will be free of pain and suffering. My heavenly home will be free of sin and sorrow. Having been a loving father and husband, the most honored job on earth.

Such was the philosophy of Joseph Stephens, who was released from all earthly duties on January 15, 2013, by answering a call to a higher mission. He was born on December 26, 1919 to the late Mr. Willie and Cora Stephens of Groveland, Georgia. During his formative years, he was raised and educated in the city of Groveland, Georgia.

He helped all who crossed his path. During his military career, he met and helped people as far away as France, Germany, Guam, Puerto Rico, Hawaii and as close as his next door neighbors. He always showed comfort and kindness to all.

Those who were privileged to share the precious gifts of his memory are: wife, Gussie Stephens of Edgefield, SC; one son, Joel P. Stephens (CW3 Ret.) and wife, (CW5)Judith Stephens of Ladysmith, WI; one daughter, Delma M. Stephens of Fayetteville, NC; four grandchildren, Michael R. Stephens of Fayetteville, NC, Dakota E. Rhodes of Dallas, TX, Joel N. Stephens of Dallas, TX, and Ashley Stephens of Dallas, TX; six great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

As we pause to pay tribute, we shall forever be grateful for his devotion to family and friends alike giving all that he had to make lives he touched brighter. The Lord saw his path get rough with many hills to climb, he gently closed his weary eyes and whispered, “Peace be thine.”