John Stevens Jr.

John Stevens, Jr., 92, of Raleigh, died June 25, 2012. He was born on November 14, 1919, in the Rhamkatte area of North Carolina, the youngest son of John Stevens, Sr. and Corinna Goodwin Stevens. John graduated from Cary High School, attended N.C. State University (known then as State College) and served in the U.S Army during World War II.

During his career, John worked as an independent insurance agent for several years before joining Durham Life Insurance Company. He served as a District Manager for Durham Life in Fayetteville, NC, and Macon, Georgia, before coming to work at the Home Office in Raleigh where he remained a Regional Vice President until his retirement. Throughout his life, John received many awards from Durham Life and, more importantly, the loyal friendship of countless co-workers, neighbors and fellow church members.

John was an avid gardener and rabid N.C. State Wolfpack fan. He was preceded in death by his seven brothers and sisters and his oldest son, John Craig Stevens. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Vickie Stevens, a son, Carter Smith, of Raleigh, and daughters, Susan Battle and her husband, Ed, of Cary, and Sally Johann and her husband, Peyton, of Richmond, Virginia. John also leaves behind seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren who fondly remember him as Papa, the man who was never without a joke to tell.

A memorial service for John will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 1, at Christ Covenant Church, 6501 Fox Road in Raleigh. In lieu of a visitation, a reception will be held for the family and guests immediately following the ceremony at the church. Those wishing to honor John’s memory may do so by sending a contribution to Christ Covenant Church, 6501 Fox Road, Raleigh, NC 27616, or to the charity of one’s choice.

Funeral arrangements are being managed by Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27612. Condolences and special memories can be shared with the family at www.MitchellatRMP.com.