John Alan Stephens

John Alan Stephens, 70, passed away on Friday, September 9 at his home in Spokane. John was born on October 20, 1940 in Dallas, Texas. He grew up at 425 South Cowley Street. He attended Sacred Heart Grade School and graduated from Gonzaga Preparatory High School in 1959 He became an amateur boxer at age 16, winning the Inland Empire Golden Gloves Boxing Award for 3 consecutive years, 1958-1960. He was a 6'2" welter weight champion and featured in Sports Illustrated. He later coached pre teen boxing. After attending Columbia Basin College, he entered the Army serving as a distinguished Military Policeman. Upon his honorable discharge, he began his career as a Washington State employee in the Employment Security Department from 1968-1976. In addition, he worked part time as a bartender at the Red Lion BBQ and Grill. He married the love of his life, Catherine "Kitty" Coffey in 1969. Fullfilling their dream, they owned and operated Dr John's Jazz Emporium located at Pacific and Division from 1976-1986. Subsequently, he became a Washington State Correctional Officer at Pine Lodge in Medical Lake. He retired in 2004 after 27 years of distinguished service. He then fulfilled his dream of traveling, first to Belize and then to Jamaica. He was preceded by his wife, "Kitty", his father Michael Alan, his mother Emma Merine, his brothers Payton Fearence and Joseph Peter. He is survived by his brothers Albert, James Dillard, Darryl Michael and his son Hugh Malcolm. The memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 24 at 2:00 PM at the Chapel of the Three Companions located at Gonzaga Preparatory High School, 1224 East Euclid Ave. Reception will follow at the Barbieri Center. Pastor, Percy "Happy" Watkins of New Hope Baptist Church, officiating. Memorial gifts may be sent to Gonzaga Preparatory High School-A.M.D.G. Arrangements under the direction of Ball & Dodd Funeral Home, Spokane, WA.