Robert (Bob) Alfred Stephens, Jr. of Hendersonville, Tennessee passed away peacefully on August 7, 2026 at the age of 71. He was born on January 9, 1955 in Jamaica, New York, St. Albans Naval hospital.

Raised in a career military family, he gained great respect for military service men and women and their families, although he did not personally serve.

His childhood was spent as an “Army Brat,” traveling to countries like France and Puerto Rico, in addition to numerous US cities where his father was stationed. He grew up playing baseball and gained a great love for the game. He carried the love of all sports throughout his life, but baseball was his favorite… Go Braves!

He was a graduate of Theodore Roosevelt High School in San Antonio Texas. Shortly after graduation he began his career in the Golf business. He was co-owner with his brother of Pro-Line Golf Shops. He helped with sales, service and managing the stores. He gained a love for the game of Golf and spent many hours playing the game with family and friends.

After the business closed in 1986, he worked for Karco in Nashville and eventually landed at James Auto Body in Hendersonville. He was a consummate service manager, helping thousands of people navigate their auto repair needs throughout his career. He was a people person and many of the people he met and served during his long career became lifelong friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Stephens, Sr and Martha Stephens, and baby brother David Lee Stephens.

He is survived by his only son, Brent Robert Stephens, (daughter in law, Erica Zunkel) and grandchildren, Emmy, Oliver, and Audrey Stephens, his brother, Anthony Stephens (sister-in-law, Rita), and Sister Deborah Alvarez (brother-in-law Richard). He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends who became his family.

He will be remembered by so many of the people whose lives he touched for his love of family, friends, and sports, his genuinely helpful nature, and his colorful character. 

A visitation gathering will be held on Saturday, September 5th from 12-3pm.

Friends that would like to share stories about Bob's life are invited to share at 2pm.

In lieu of flower donations may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital.