J. N. Stephens

J.N. Stephens, who lived a full and blessed life of 90 years, passed away on April 27, 2026, at Twin Rivers. He was born on July 4, 1935, in Kansas, Arkansas, to the late Samuel Stephens and Hester Dickens Stephens.

He attended Bell High School in Gurdon Arkansas. He accepted Christ at an early age at the Providence A.M.E. Church where he was Superintendent of Sunday School. This is where he met Clea Ester Dickens. On February 2, 1959, they were united in Holy Matrimony. To this union three children were born, Janice, Quinn and Rickey.

He was a true outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing equally. Many days, he could be found at the water’s edge, casting his line in hopes of reeling in the biggest catch. The outdoors was his sanctuary – a place where he found peace, joy, and reflection.

J.N. worked alongside his father in the family logging business for many years. He later began working for Bobby Humphrey Logging, where he held a log cutting contract for several years. He eventually continued his work with Mark Humphrey, where he remained until his retirement. He was a hardworking man who took pride in providing and appreciated the simple pleasures of life.

He especially enjoyed family gatherings, which gave him the opportunity to connect with both the older and younger generations. He loved to dance, listen to the blues, and spend quality time with his family, his hunting buddies, and his many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife Clea Stephens; son, Quinn Stephens; parents, Samuel and Hester Stephens; one sister, Flossetta Grays, and one brother Johnny Stephens.

He leaves to cherish his memories; one son, Rickey Stephens (Onia) of Malvern; one daughter, Janice Brewer of Davenport, FL; one granddaughter, Erice Purifoy (Antone) of Hot Springs; one grandson, Michael Taton (Katie) of Davenport, FL; and five great grandchildren. He also leaves a host of relatives and friends.

Pallbearers will be Quincy Dickens, David Young, Louis Clark, Jr., Kentrell Green, Kyle Cooper and Saundra Tuggle. Honorary pallbearers will be Bunker Dickens, Kalvin Dickens, Randy Dickens, Billy Joe Buckley and Robert Winn.