Harry Lester Stephens

Harry “Straw” Stephens, 88, of Sylva, passed away Monday February 4, 2013. A native of Jackson County, he was the son of the late Charles and Estella Phillips Stephens. An avid Nascar fan with a good sense of humor, he was an U.S.Army WWII Veteran, who served in the 34th Infantry of the Red Bull Division and was involved in the Italian Campaign. He retired as a Maintenance Supervisor for Jackson County and had also worked for the NC DOT. He served as an Alderman for the Town of Sylva for several terms and was a very loyal Democrat. He was a Member of the First Baptist Church of Sylva as well as American Legion Post 104 in Sylva. Besides his parents he was also preceded in death by his wife- Geneva Metcalf Stephens, 4 brothers- Kenneth, Charles D., Dan and Bill Stephens, a sister- Mary Nell Brooks, and his daughter-in-law-Helen Ward Stephens. He is survived by 2 Daughters- Wanda Herren and her husband James of Cullowhee Sandy Miller and her husband Joe of Sylva 1 Son- H. Mike Stephens of Sylva 2 Granddaughters- Nikki Young of Cullowhee and Brandi Hillman and her husband Greig of Asheville 2 Brothers- Dave and Ed Stephens 2 Sisters- Fannie Roper and Shirley Hamilton Several Step Grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews also survive As well as Faithful Caregivers- Ruth Brooks, Sharon Weinzierl, Odette Kinkaid, Mary Peters and Gypsy Parker And of course his favorite pet- Dolly Funeral Services will be 2:00 PM Thursday February 7 in the Chapel of Appalachian Funeral Services with Dr. John Bunn officiating. The family will receive friend from 1 until 2:00 PM prior to the Service at the Funeral Home. Burial will be in Fairview Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to William E. Dillard American Legion Post 104, PO Box 104, Sylva, NC 28779 .