WILMINGTON — James B. “Jim” Stevens, 71, passed away unexpectedly Monday, Jan. 16, 2017. He was born on April 18, 1945, in Salina, Kansas, to the late Tillman E. and Inez J. Stevens.
He graduated in 1963 from Orangeburg High School, Orangeburg, S.C., and subsequently studied at Clemson University. His most recent and notable professional accomplishment was being patriarch, president and CEO of Stevens Hardware Company in Wilmington since 1990, of which he was very proud. Never officially retiring, he did leave his business endeavors in his sons’ hands while he devoted his last years being completely involved and dedicated to his family.
He enjoyed travel, camping and mostly spending time capturing the events of his grandchildren as they grew. He was loved and admired by many. He will be greatly missed.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Tillman E. Stevens Jr.
He is survived by his wife, Patsy; daughter, Renee (Wayne) of Burgaw, N.C.; three sons, Ben, and his wife, Jenny, of Spartanburg S.C., Andrew and his wife, Stephanie, of Wilmington, and Joseph, and his wife, Holly, of Wilmington; brother, Robert, and his wife, Diane, of Orangeburg, S.C., and residing in Wilmington; and eight grandchildren, Jay, Elizabeth, Cady, Madison, Trey, Colin, Casey and Dexter; two nephews, Tillman and Robert; two nieces, Karla and Alice; and several great-nieces and great- nephews.
Family visitation will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, with a memorial service to follow at 2 p.m. at Andrews Mortuary, 1617 Market St., Wilmington.
In lieu of flowers, please make charitable contributions to Children’s Miracle Network, Lower Cape Fear Hospice or Paws Place Dog Rescue.