John Stephens

John E. Stephens, age 86, of Greenfield, passed away on March 22, 2026.

He was born on January 17, 1940, in Hahn, Missouri, the son of the late Joshua and Tula Stephens (Eaker). He married the love of his life, Evelyn, on May 4, 1963, at the Meadowbrook 1st Baptist Church. She preceded him in death.

John is a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, serving during the Vietnam War era. He had a passion for shooting and a deep interest in military history. He enjoyed working on old cars, drawing up innovative designs, improvements, and concepts, dedicating time to autobody and mechanical repairs. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his family and friends.

John is survived by his children, Shelley (Jim) Embry of Greenfield, and Mandy (Nathan) Joyce of Godfrey; sisters Della Conry of East Alton, Kay (John) Purdy of Virginia; brother Robert Stephens of Iowa; grandchildren Jayme Buckley, Heather Herrin, Stephanie Herrin, Noah Herrin, Joshua Heaton, Dylan Embry, Delaney Miller, Alex Stephens, Sean Stephens, Lydia Steckel, Calvin Joyce, and Grant Joyce; 15 great-grandchildren; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Along with his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his children John Stephens II, James Stephens, David Stephens, Robert Stephens, and Emily Sonnier; brother Jim Stephens; and grandchildren Ashley Herrin and Scarlet Daisy Jane Joyce.

Visitation will be on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 9:30 until the time of service at 11 AM, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Pastor Kevin Auten will be officiating. Interment ceremony to follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto, with the VFW Post 1308 performing military honors.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association.

Obit Provided By:
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home