Harry Leroy Stevens, age 83, passed away Sunday morning, January 29, 2017 at his home in Joplin, following a long illness.
Harry and his twin brother, Jack Freeman Stevens, were born November 15, 1933 in Verona, Missouri to Harry I. Stevens and Ida M. Haskell Stevens. The family lived in Monett until 1948 when Ida and her sons moved to San Diego, California after Harry Sr. lost his life to cancer. There, Harry was active in Boy Scouts, earning his Eagle Scout award and enjoying tennis and school.
After high school graduation, Harry enlisted in the United States Air Force. Deployed to London, England, he was selected to membership in the Air Force hand-balancing team which spent the next three years entertaining troops stationed throughout Europe. Returning home after completing his tour of duty, he enrolled at San Diego State College where he studied police science. Athletics, still being his first love, he joined the school’s tennis team. Transferring later to San Jose State, he continued in his major. He also studied judo, earning a brown belt. He was employed as a Deputy Sheriff in Santa Clara County, California for several years. Eventually, Harry returned to his roots in southwest Missouri. He became an active real estate broker in Aurora. Later he moved to Joplin, eventually becoming a real estate appraiser and establishing Stevens Appraisal Service in 1990. Retiring in 2010, he was fortunate his two sons, Scott and Ron, had been in the business with him where they continue to run it successfully.
After moving to Joplin, he met and married Joan Brock, the love of his life. Harry was a loving husband, father, grandfather, step-father, brother- Harry is survived by Joan, his wife of 25 years, children: Ron Jenkins of Carl Junction, Scott Stevens (Corinne) of Carl Junction, Kelli Nugent (Shawn) of Carthage, Leonard Stevens of Palm Springs, CA; 5 grandchildren and 3½ great-grandchildren. Additional surviving family members include step-children: LaDonna Carey, Doug Whitehead and Rhonda Donham (Jeff) and 6 step-grandchildren. Special family members include Glendora Brock, Jimmy Brock, Aubrey and Sandy Brock and Ruth Pristas.
Harry was preceded in death by his twin brother Jack Stevens and his parents Harry and Ida Stevens.
Harry was a loyal friend to many. His friendships go back as far as childhood. He enjoyed his life and his family. He was a man with a good and caring heart. He loved people. He will be missed.
Graveside Services will be Friday, February 3 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery With Pastor Jeff Martin, officiating. Donations are suggested to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are under the directions of Parker Mortuary.
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