John Samuel Stevenson

On Thursday, 7/14/22, one of the greatest storytellers of railroad lore and Arizona history passed away peacefully. John Samuel Stevenson, born 9/2/36, to Scottsdale cotton farmers Frank and Mollie Stevenson, was an authentic AZ native whose roots began on a 40-acre farm located at Titus Mansion on Hayden Rd. and McDowell Rd., and ended at his home in Clarkdale, overlooking the Verde Valley. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Vivian Jane and Norma Jean; and two of his sons, Mark Stevenson and Samuel Stevenson. He was survived by his wife Nancy Jo, three of his children, Deborah Brandt, John Stuart Stevenson, and Brett Stevenson, 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. John graduated from Scottsdale High School in 1954. He attended Phoenix College and ASU. Starting in October of 1954, John began his lifelong career with Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe railroad. He retired in 1998 as the Winslow Trainmaster. He volunteered at the Clarkdale Historical Society where he told stories from his childhood during WWII, his experiences on the railroad, and his first-hand witness to the growth and development of Arizona. Every story was authentic and filled with humor. Of all the incredible things John will be remembered for, the first things that come to mind for those who know him best was his warm and friendly demeanor, his passion for history, his plethora of railroad adventure stories, and his dedication to Christ. Memorial services will be held at Clarkdale Baptist Church on Saturday, September 10th at 1:00 p.m.