FRANKLIN, INDIANA
Reverend John Mercer Stephenson, 83, longtime resident of Franklin, Indiana, was called home on Monday, October 23, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
John was born December 11, 1939 in Indianapolis to the late John Franklin and Leona Mary (Roebuck) Stephenson.
John married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Shay, on July 12, 1958; they were married for 65 wonderful years. He was the founder and pastor of Franklin Apostolic Gospel Church for 51 years and was a retired mail carrier of Greenwood and Flat Rock, Indiana. He enjoyed working on cars, traveling, and going on camping trips with his wife.
John is survived by his wife, Patricia Stephenson; children, John Brian (Emily) Stephenson, Rev. David Lee (Cindy) Stephenson, Mark Andrew (Cindy) Stephenson, and Rev. Jonathan Paul Stephenson; grandchildren, Lee Stephenson, Kyle (Tracy) Stephenson, Becky Stephenson, Luke (Keegan) Stephenson, and Natalie (Liam) Duncan; 6 great-grandchildren; a special family friend, Keith Irvin.
John was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, William “Sonny” Stephenson.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 1:00pm at King’s Highway Church, located at 5557 E. State Road 44, Franklin, IN 46131, with visitation from 11:00am until the funeral hour. John will be laid to rest at Second Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Needham, Indiana.
Arrangements entrusted to Jessen Funeral Home &Simple Cremation ~ Whiteland Chapel. 729 N. US Highway 31, Whiteland, IN 46184. (317) 535-6880. www.jessenfuneralhome.com
