James Stephenson

James Maurice Stephenson, 89 years old, resident of Nephi, Utah, passed away Sunday, August 6, 2023. James was the son of Harold and Tola Bowers Stephenson of Nephi, Utah.

James attended elementary and secondary schools in Nephi. After high school, he joined the Army serving in Korea. Upon returning home, he joined the Utah National Guard, including deployment to Desert Storm. He retired after 27 years serving the country he loved.

James married Janice Crosland June 15, 1956 in the Manti Utah LDS Temple. Together they have six children: Mike (Tiare) of Nephi, Bart (Louise) of Rawlins, WY, Lori (Rodney) Steiner of Nephi, Curtis (Melanie) of St. George, Jan Sutherland of Mona, and David (Michelle) of Highland.

James was loved by all who he worked with over the years at Meadow Gold, Thiokol, Standard Oil Co., 4-D Plumbing, Nephi City Water Department, NRP, Greenwood Sales & Service, and Juab County Road Department. He also worked for many years as the secretary of the Nephi Irrigation Company. His work ethic and ability to build lasting relationships were an example to all.

He enjoyed many years of church service including Elders Quorum President, Bishopric member, and Temple Worker. 

Family and friends were most important to James. He spent countless hours camping, going to rodeo and riding club events, hunting, fishing, four wheeling, chasing wild horses on the West Desert, and whatever else he could do to spend time with the ones he loved. He loved spending time at Quality Fitness Gym, running nine St. George Marathons, and participating in many other races. He always treasured his friends in the Good Sams Club.

James is preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law John Sutherland, brother Norman and sister Mary. 

James is survived by his wife Janice, six children, 23 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to express their appreciation for the many prayers, cards, food, and visits. They are especially grateful for the skilled and compassionate hospital and hospice care including: Julie Ann Parkin, Angela Roundy, Kristy James, Jaycee James, Dr. James Rosenbeck, Dr. Marc Jones, Brace and Mike at Anderson Funeral Home, Bishop Mark Worthington and the members of the Nephi 3rd Ward for their compassionate service.

A viewing will be held on Monday, August 14, 2023 from 9:00-10:30 AM at the Nephi North Stake Center, located at 1125 North 400 East, Nephi, Utah. Graveside services will then be held at 11:00 AM at the Vine Bluff Cemetery. Those attending should plan to bring a chair.