Jerry Thomas Stephens

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jerry Thomas Stephens, age 87, of Gadsden, Alabama, who passed away on February 22, 2025. Jerry was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

A visitation for Jerry will be held Wednesday, February 26, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Collier-Butler Funeral & Cremation Services, 824 Rainbow Drive, Gadsden, Alabama 35901. Following the visitation will be a graveside service at 1:00 PM at Rainbow Memorial Gardens, 1440 W Grand Ave, Gadsden, Alabama 35904.

Born to Able and Mary Stephens, Jerry lived a full and rich life, filled with love, adventure, and hard work. He was the loving husband to Dorrene Roberson Stephens, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage. Together, they built a family grounded in love and devotion. Jerry was a proud father to Gregory (Beverley) Stephens and Phillip (Misha) Stephens.

As a grandfather, Jerry adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy. His legacy will live on through his grandchildren Miranda (Jeremey) Miller, Meghan Stephens, Chrystal (Michael) Shepard, Jessica White, Diewon Stephens, Evie Stephens, Dominique (Sam) McIntosh, Alexander Stephens, and Jimmy Thomas Stephens (J.T.), along with 8 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family, including his chosen grandson, Daniel Littleton.

Jerry’s love for life was reflected in his hobbies and interests. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, tending to his garden, and watching the birds that frequented his feeders. His love for nature was matched only by his passion for bluegrass music, which brought him great joy throughout his life.

In addition to his family life, Jerry was a hardworking man. He built, owned, and operated the Gadsden Raceway until 1981. Later, he retired from Owen Plating as a truck driver in 2003, after years of loyal service.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Able and Mary Stephens; his brothers Richard Stephens and James Stephens; and his sister Rose Stephens Hoover.

Pallbearers including John Gramling, Diewon Stephens, Michael Shepard, Doug Roberson, Scott Mask, and Berrie Waldron. Honorary pallbearers will be Rob McCabe and Keithan Gramling.

The family would like to extend their deepest thanks to the Riverview CCU nurses, Southern New Beacon Hospice, and their special neighbor and friend, Connie Smith, for their unwavering support. The family is also grateful to their precious nieces, who were a great comfort during this time.

Jerry will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.