Hinson Lafayette Stephens , MD. died peacefully at Moosehaven Retirement Community on August 2, 2021. He was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather as well as a leader and role model in the medical community.
The oldest of eight children,Hinson was born on April 26th,1931 in Holley, Florida to John and Mary Stephens. His early life was filled with adventures with his brothers and sisters, especially his brother, Jack. After graduating from the University of Florida Pharmacy School and the University of Miami Medical School, he completed his residency in Jacksonville at the Duval Medical Center. He began his 50 year career as a family practice physician in Orange Park, Florida in 1960.
The impact that Hinson had on the Clay County medical community was profound. He delivered hundreds of babies and continued to care for them and their families for over 50 years. He made countless house calls at all hours of the day and night, and his office doors were open to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. He served as a mentor for many young physicians throughout his life. He was always willing to listen and advise at anytime. His gentle, easy manner made him much beloved by his patients and staff.
In 1964, Hinson became medical director of Moosehaven Retirement Community. He held this position for 44 years. His devotion and commitment to the health and wellbeing of residents and staff was central to his medical career. The love he gave to them was returned as they cared for him in the final years of his life.
In the early 70’s, Hinson along with Dr. Raleigh Thompson and Dr. Tom Harden founded Orange Park Hospital, now Orange Park Medical Center. This gave Orange Park residents a much needed option for care as prior to that, they had to choose between driving to Green Cove or Jacksonville for services.
A strong believer in stewardship, Hinson gave his time to many community organizations. He served on the board of directors for Compass Bank, and was very active in The Rotary Club of Orange Park as a charter member, Rotarian of the year, and past president. Hinson was also a Paul Harris Fellow.
Hinson enjoyed sports, especially Florida football, golf, and hunting. He loved to have fun and relished his weekly rounds of golf followed by time in the 19th hole with his friends. He was a humble, kind man who was loved by many. He will be missed.
He was predeceased by his beautiful wife of 53 years, Betty Jo, who was the love of his life and his daughters, Jill and Maria. He is survived by his two sons, Hinson(Sharon) and Mike(Mimi ) along with his grandchildren Sarah, Hinson, and Riley Stephens, Candice Pretsch, and Phoebe, Jack and Dinah Stephens. The family would like to thank all of the staff and administration of Moosehaven for their love and care and support.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 6th, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Episcopal Church of Orange Park, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Moose charities at https://www.moosecharities.org/ways-to-give/.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hollyhillfunerals.com for the STEPHENS family.
