James "Jim" Wesley Stephens

James Wesley Stephens, (Jim), age 80, of Englewood, TN, passed away Tuesday, May 28, 2024, in Starr Regional Medical Center, Athens, TN. He was a native of Decherd, TN, resident of McMinn County since 2007, a son of the late Lonnie and Marie Hill Stephens and preceded in death by infant son Felix Wesley Stephens. He earned a Masters degree in Physics from UT Space Institute, Tullahoma, TN, then went on to successfully own and operate a variety of businesses including radon detection, computer programming, solar energy and property management. He famously said there wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix with either epoxy or duct tape! He was an avid golfer, he built and opened Scenic View Golf Course in Winchester, TN in 1971, operated first by his brother, now by his niece and husband. After moving to Athens he bought and operated Rock Springs Golf Course for 12 years. He served in the Air Force as a radar/electronics specialist, learned to fly helicopters in his 40’s, loved to travel, was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Athens, TN, he loved God and his family.

Survivors: Wife of 41 years, Annette Friar Stephens, Englewood, TN; Son and Daughter-in-law, Dominic and Patricia Stephens, Athens, TN; Grandsons, Wesley (Shellie) Stephens, and Christopher (Sarah) Stephens; Great-grandchildren, Presley Stephens, Hudson Stephens and Addison Stephens; Brother, Randy Stephens, Winchester, TN; Sister, Karen Walker, Decherd, TN.

Two Celebrations of Life will be held. The first at White Oak Grove Church of God, Decherd, TN on Sunday, June 9 at 2:30 CST. The second at Michael's Casual Dining Restaurant 925 Congress Pkwy N, Athens, TN from 2-4pm, Saturday, June 15.

Memorial contributions to McMinn County Humane Society or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. 

Condolences may be sent to https://www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/james-jim-stephen

Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home, Athens, TN in charge of arrangements.