Obituary of James Howard Stephenson

James Howard Stephenson, of Walton, KY, passed away Thursday, April 4, 2024, in Union, KY at the age of 80. Jim was a lifelong resident of Boone County. He began his career with the Kroger company, working his way up to an executive position as a meat buyer. Jim learned the meat business while working with his uncles in their butcher shop in Walton, KY. In 1991, Jim and his wife Greta started G&J Sales and built a thriving business together, along with their children. After decades in the brokerage business and earning countless awards, he retired in 2011. Jim enjoyed reading, fishing, cooking for his family and friends, watching Fox News, smoking a good cigar and he always looked forward to springtime when he would plant a garden with his grandkids and great grandkids. Prior to her death in 2014, Jim and his beloved wife Greta Bishop Stephenson enjoyed spending time with their family, spending time at Lake Cumberland and traveling. They were happily married for more than 48 years. Also, preceding Jim in death were his son, James “Jimmy” Stephenson, Jr., his sister, Kathryn Schadler, and his brother, Ron Stephenson. He is survived by his daughters, Sherry Stephens (Aaron) and Michelle Schutte; grandchildren, Bradley Stephenson (Beth), Spencer Stephenson (Paige), Chase Stephenson (Megan), Sawyer Stephenson, Logan Vanzijl (Casey), Max Bamberger, Caleb Schutte, Lily Stephens and Meredith Stephens; and great grandchildren, Kaylee, Harper, Charlotte and Everett. Visitation for Jim will be Sunday, April 14, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. with his funeral service immediately following at 4 p.m. at Big Bone Baptist Church, 11036 Big Bone Church Rd., Union, KY 41091.  Interment will be at Big Bone Baptist Church Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the UC Brain Tumor Center, P.O. Box 19970, Cincinnati, Ohio 45219, www.foundation.uc.edu.  foundation.uc.edu.  For directions, to view his Life Tribute Video or to leave the family a message of condolence, please go to www.chambersandgrubbs.com.