Jerry Eugene Stephenson, Sr.

Jerry Eugene Stephenson, Sr., age 71, of Benton, passed away on Wednesday morning, May 2, 2018, at his residence.  Born on June 26, 1946 in Cleveland to the late M.L. and Margie Owenby Stephenson, he had lived in Polk County the past 25 years.  Jerry was the President of Advantage Logistics Incorporated and was known as one of the best mechanics around earning him the title of the “Diesel Doctor”.  Jerry was a giving person who never met a stranger and enjoyed his trucking company and spending time with his family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Alice Stephenson, and a brother, Raymond Stephenson.

Jerry is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 33 years, Phyllis Davis Stephenson; children, Fancy Denise Stephenson Joyce of Cleveland, Jerry Eugene Stephenson, Jr., of Riceville, and Christy Machelle (Chris) Watson of Ocoee; and a brother Cecil (Linda) Stephenson of Cleveland; nine grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and a host of other extended family and friends also survive.

A Celebration of Life and home going for Jerry Stephenson, Sr., will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 5, 2018 in the chapel of Ralph Buckner Funeral Home with Brother Larry Cockerham officiating.  Interment will follow in Benton Memorial Gardens with a white dove release ceremony concluding the service.

The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. Friday, May 4, 2018 at the funeral home and again on Saturday from 12 noon until the funeral hour.

We invite you to send a message of comfort and view the family guestbook online at www.ralphbuckner.com.

Ralph Buckner Funeral Home and Crematory of Cleveland is in charge of the arrangements.