John Stevens

John W. Stevens, a devoted husband, father, and respected member of the community, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2024, at the age of 94 in Corsicana, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 24, 1929, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, to John Brady and Jewel Stevens, John was the eldest of six boys. His early years were marked by resilience and determination, traits that would define his life. His family later moved to New Mexico, where he graduated from Artesia High School in 1949, before earning his Mechanical Engineering degree from Texas Tech University in 1953. In 1961, John married the love of his life, Jo Jackson Calkins, after a chance encounter at a South Main Baptist bowling social. Together, they shared a beautiful life and raised three children: Randy, Scott (spouse Robin), and Kristen (spouse Dave). John proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army from 1953 to 1955, where he worked as an engineer assistant assigned to ordnance testing at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, and Yuma Test Station, Arizona. Following his military service, he dedicated 31 years of his career to Hughes Tool Company, where he made significant contributions to the development of specialized drilling equipment for petroleum extraction. Beyond his professional endeavors, John had a diverse range of interests and passions. He was an avid reader with a thirst for knowledge, deeply engaged in finance, politics, and Bible studies. Always one who was curious about how things work, he loved airplanes and had his Private Pilot’s license. He cherished moments spent with friends over coffee, engaging in lively discussions and sharing stories. John also had a profound love for travel and spent much of his life exploring the natural wonders of the West. John's legacy lives on through his children: Randy, Scott, and Kristen, as well as his grandchildren: Lindsey McCartney, Dylan Knutson, Logan Stevens, Sage Stevens, and Jack Knutson, and his four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Doug and Earl Stevens. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jo, his parents, and his brothers Bill, Ken, and Ara Stevens. Visitation to honor John's memory will be held at Griffin Roughton Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 16th, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed by a graveside service at Hamilton Beeman Cemetery at 2:00 PM. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit and legacy will forever endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

John Stevens

December 24, 1929 - April 12, 2024