Memorial services for James M. Stephens, 70, of Ruston, LA will be held at 1:30 PM on Wednesday, August 22, 2018 in Temple Baptist Church Chapel. Visitation will be from 12:30 PM until the time of service on Wednesday in the Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes, Ruston.Mike was born on December 11, 1947, in Eufaula, Alabama to James R. and Irene Stephens. Mike was raised in Columbus, GA, and upon graduation he served in the U. S. Air Force as a helicopter radio operator. After returning to Georgia, he became a truck driver and drove cross county for forty-seven years. During those forty-seven years, Mike never met a stranger, made many lasting friendships, and always had advice for those with an ear. Mike enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing. In 1985, he met his wife of thirty-two years, Miss Shirley.He is survived by his wife, Shirley Hicks Stephens; brothers, Gary Stephens and wife, Sylvia of Carrolton, TX, and Ted Walters of Cardington, Ohio; sisters, Gail Fowler of Columbus, GA, and Ann DesRochers and husband, Bob of Sarasota, FL. Mike children include Jay Stephens and wife, Susan of Waverly Hall, GA; Michelle Stephens Cooper of Columbus GA; Kelly Stephens Alexander of Columbus GA; Jone Robinson Heflin and husband, Kenny of Gilmer TX; and Lana Robinson Patton and husband, Jeff of Ruston, LA. His grandchildren and great-grand children were the highlights of his conversations. Grandchildren include Tricia, Michael, Mekaila, Lindsey, Kyle, Melisa, Kaitlin, Tristan, Josie, Connor, Christopher, Wayne, Josh and Lexi; great-grandchildren Grayson, Asher, Roman and Marley. He is also survived by much loved nieces and nephews, Jill, Julie, Nikki, Eric, Scott and Randy.In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Temple Baptist Church or 4 PAWS Rescue, Inc. in Ruston, LA.Online condolences may be made to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com.