John Stephens, Jr.

Mr. John H. Stephens, Jr. 70, of Advance, passed away Monday, May 6, 2019 at his home. He was born in Fayetteville to Bettie Ward Montague. John was a veteran who served in the U.S. Army from 1968-1972 during the Vietnam War in the 173rd Airborne Division. He joined the Fayetteville Police Department in 1972. John later joined the Davie County Sheriff’s Office in 1980 and rose to the position of detective and retired in 2005. John was a servant by nature; he served his country, his community, his church and those who called him family and friend. He loved life and he used every opportunity to better the lives of those around him. He was a loving husband, father, brother and Pop Pop. He was preceded in death by his mother, Bettie, and spouse, Jim Montague; two brothers, Audie Bice and Lynnie Stephens. Surviving are his loving wife of 35 years, Dianna Smith Stephens; a son, Cody Stephens (Brandi); his daughter, Courtney Ridenhour (Adam); three grandchildren, Rhaelyn and Gunner Stephens and Sullivan Ridenhour; two sisters, Kristall Wedding (Ronnie) and Roxanne Richards (Bob); two brothers, Steve Bice (Dranthia) and David Bice (Janet). Also surviving are a special niece, Brooke McCraw and numerous nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 10, 2019 at First Baptist Church of Mocksville with Rev. Steve Bice and Rev. Adam Ridenhour officiating with full military honors. There is no stated visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Davie County Heroes Fund c/o Davie Community Foundation, P.O. Box 546, Mocksville, NC 27028. (Hayworth-Miller Kinderton Chapel)