Final Salute

Jerry “JJ” Joe Stephenson, 77, passed away January 22, 2026 in Williamsburg, VA. Jerry was a resident of Bacons Castle, VA. He was the son of the late John William and Ella Akers Stephenson. He is also predeceased by two infant brothers.

JJ proudly served his country in the U. S. Navy Seabees. He was a Vietnam War veteran. While there, in addition to his regular duties, he was part of a band that played throughout Vietnam preforming for other in-country troops. That band is chronicled in the book “Wasted Blood” authored by band member Ken Palmer.

He retired as master industrial painter refitting US naval vessels for major shipbuilding contractors.

He loved fishing and his motorcycles, particularly Triumphs and Harleys.

He is survived by his son, Jerry Frost; his sister, Kathy Stephenson Peebles (Paul), his extremely close friends, Tom, Jody, Donna and Nelson; and many cousins and cherished friends. He will be dearly missed.

A graveside service will be held at St. Anne’s Cemetery (165 Virginia Ave, Claremont, VA) on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM with Pastor Jimmy Acree officiating. A reception will follow the service at Claremont Baptist Church (100 River Road, Claremont, VA). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jerry’s name to Blood Cancer United, a society that conducts research that allowed us more time with Jerry.

Donations may also be made to a Veteran’s Charity of your choosing, a cause close to his heart.

R. W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home and Crematory Wakefield, VA, is serving the family. Condolences may be registered at RWBakerFH.com.