James Stephens

James Hockett Stephens went peacefully to be with his Lord and   Savior early Saturday morning, January 30, 2016 surrounded by his wife and three daughters.

Jim was born to James E. and Myrti Stephens in Glenwood Springs, CO on September 28, 1934.  He was raised on the ranch at Sweetwater founded by his father and grandfather, Henry Stephens. Jim continued ranching, raising cattle on that beautiful land along with his father and brother Bill through the 1990s.

Jim attended Eagle County High School, continued his education at Colorado State College of Agriculture (later known as Colorado State University) graduating with BS degree in Animal Husbandry in 1957.  While there, he served on the Livestock Judging Team and was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity.

He was a lifetime member of the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association serving on committees and holding the office of Vice President. Some of Jim’s other endeavors included a brief stint as an agricultural loan officer of the Glenwood Springs First National Bank.  However, being confined in an office was not what he was “cut out” for!   His true calling was ranching. He also was a realtor, selling ranch and farm properties in Colorado.

The joys of his life were caring for the land and livestock with his girls by his side, roping in the Burns Roping Club, socializing with friends, family and especially fishing with and enjoying his grandchildren.  Jim was a pleasant, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.  Remembered for his great smile, quick laugh, kind-hearted nature…. a true gentleman.

He married the love of his life Jean Gates, December 6, 1953.  She, along with their daughters: Cindy Webb, Deborah (Richard) Burford and Lynn (Scott) Laramore survive him.  He also leaves grandsons; Jacob Webb, Christopher (Robin) Webb, Travis (Michelle) Webb, Kane (Stephanie) Laramore, Austin (Katherine) Laramore, James Burford, granddaughters; Taylor Laramore and Leslie Burford, 7 great-grandchildren, brother William A. (Annalies)Stephens and numerous nieces and nephews.

The memorial service will be held at 4 pm on Friday, February 5, at First Presbyterian Church, 3940 27 1/2 Road, Grand Jct., CO with reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to HopeWest Hospice, 3090 North 12th Street, Unit B, Grand Jct. CO 81506. Arrangements are being conducted by Brown’s Cremation Services. Condolences may be left at brownscremationservice.com.