Mr. James F. Stephens Sr., of Carbon Hill, Alabama, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2024, at the age of 86. He was the devoted husband of the late Betty Sue (Smothers) Stephens and a cherished father, “PawPaw,” and friend to all who knew him. James proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1975, dedicating two decades of his life to military service. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Ruby Stephens; his beloved wife, Betty; and his sisters, Rose Mullins, Charlotte Green, and Laura Copas. James is survived by his loving children: Janeena (Mike), Angela Wright and Jim Stephens. He also leaves behind his treasured grandchildren: Josh and Ethan Zalipski, Robert Stacy, Johnny Sullivan, Ryan Stephens, Anna Stephens, Jamie Stephens, and Alex Holmes; two great-grandchildren, Johnny Sullivan and Olivia Stephens and his brothers, Bill Stephens (Karen) and Jeff Stephens (Nancy). Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 1:00 PM from The Wilson Funeral Home Chapel in Carbon Hill. The family will welcome friends and family members to visit at 12:00 PM. Brother Dwight Bailey will officiate the service. Following the service, James will be laid to rest at Kelley Cemetery in Eldridge, Alabama. Wilson Funeral Home is honored to serve the Stephens family during this time of loss. May James’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.