John Allen Stephens

John Allen Stephens, 89, born at home in Westcott, Texas, to Richard M. and Edna Stephens on January 12, 1928, was called home on January 13, 2017. He went to school in Shepherd, Texas and quit during his senior year to join the Marine Corps where he played football and did a tour in Guam. After his honorable discharge he traveled the country for Sohio Oil Company. He met and married the love of his life of 51 years, Nora Nevada Pemberton, in Blackwell Oklahoma. He also loved the outdoors which led to many wondrous hunting and fishing adventures. He was a member of Ducks Unlimited and the Cleveland V.F.W. He had a contagious laugh, competitive spirit, and loved all social events. He enjoyed bowling, shuffleboard, dominoes, chess, and played a mean game of "42". He was a family man and lived for his grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard M. and Edna Stephens; wife Nora Nevada Stephens; brothers R.J., Doug, and Doyle Stephens; sister Leola Ritter; son Craig Allen Stephens and five grandsons.

He is survived by his brother Gene Stephens (Peggy); daughters Cynthia Hall (Edward), Stephanie Henderson (Jim), daughter-in-law Shanan Blackerby; grandsons Stephen Wilson (Lisa), Cameron Nichols, Daniel Reynolds, James Tipton, Billy Tipton; step-grandchildren Jordan Hall (Meagan), Harlee Byars, Colton Byars, Trais Kinsey, Gavis Kinsey, and seven great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and other loving family members and friends.

Please join us in a celebration of his life on Saturday, January 21, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Pace Stancil Funeral Home, 303 E. Crockett St. Cleveland, Texas 77327. Interment will immediately follow at Farley Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday, January 20, 2017, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Pace Stancil Funeral Home.