James William “Gunny” Stephens

James William “Gunny” Stephens, 72, of Cassville passed away Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, at his home.
He was born Dec. 21, 1952, in Cassville, the son of James Albert “Spiz” and Billie Ann (Ledgerwood) Stephens. On Sept. 7, 2013, in Cassville, he was united in marriage to Sarah Manwarren, who survives. Also surviving are sons, Chris Stephens, of Cassville and Jeff Stephens, of Springfield; sister Jil Hunt, of Olathe, Kan.; and aunt Martha Watt, of Clovis, Calif. Additional survivors include Nick Manwarren and wife Autumn, of Purdy; Heather Cumpton and husband Allan, of Cassville; five grandchildren; two nephews; many great-nephews and great-nieces; as well as countless others.
Preceding him in death were his parents and first wife Debra (Marshall) Stephens.
He grew up in Cassville and graduated from Cassville High School in 1971. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and served in the United States Marine Corps from 1972 until retiring as a Gunnery Sergeant in 1992. On March 20, 1976 he married Debra Marshall. He earned his degree from Christian Brothers College in Memphis, Tenn. in 1990. He served as president of American Legion Post 118 in Cassville for several years. After returning home from the military, he worked at Les Jacob’s Ford as the finance manager for several years.
Memorial services were held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 10, at Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. S.T. Ledgerwood conducted the services. Burial with military honors was held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Cassville.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in loving memory of Gunny.
Visit www.fohnfuneralhome.com for online obituaries, guestbook and private condolences.