James Fraser Stephens

James Fraser Stephens of Benton, Arkansas, was born in Montgomery, Alabama August 14, 1955, and died March 10, 2019. He grew up in Wyoming and would go on to follow his father's footsteps and earn a bachelor's degree from the University of Arkansas. James served his country for five years in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Captain, and then returned to the University of Arkansas to earn a master's degree. James spent his adult life dedicated to his job working for the State of Arkansas at the Department of Environmental Quality as a geologist. He participated in his community by coaching local youth soccer teams for the better part of a decade and for the last five years assisting with the Stella Boyle Smith Young Artist Competition. He will be remembered by his friends and family for his loyalty, selflessness, and his uncompromising moral character. He was both strong and compassionate and made everyone around him better for it. He will be forever cherished and missed. James is survived by his loving family: his sister, Mary Ann Matthews, his brother-in-law, Dan Matthews, his nephew, Stephen Matthews and Stephen's spouse Brittanie Matthews, his niece, Carey Ann Matthews, and by his wife and son, Jeannine and Andrew Stephens. Visitation will be held for James on Wednesday March 13, 2019 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Smith – Benton Funeral Home, 322 North Market Street, Benton, Arkansas 72015. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.