John Buford Stephens
John Buford Stephens, 72, of Jayess, went to his heavenly home on April 9, 2025. He was born on Nov. 14, 1952, in Monticello.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Minnie Hall Stephens; brothers, Paul Stephens (Evelyn) and Wayne Stephens; and sister, Cathern Buchanan (Elzy).
John Buford is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Kay Gordon Stephens, and his daughters, Roxie Stephens Landry (Chuck), of Jayess, and Britta Stephens (Dylan), of Summit. He is also survived by one sister-in-law, Cris Stephens, of Monticello, and a host of nieces and nephews.
John Buford Stephens, better known to most as Coach, spent 32 years as an educator serving as a math teacher, coach, and principal. Coach Stephens began his teaching career at Silver Creek in 1976, where he coached junior high football and basketball and taught math. Coach Stephens spent the majority of his coaching career at North Pike, where he served as the girls basketball coach, junior high football coach, math teacher, and later the GED program coordinator. During his career at North Pike, Coach Stephens, along with his wife Kay, built the girls basketball team into one of the most respected programs in South Mississippi. In his 18 seasons there, Coach Stephens and his Lady Jags won numerous district championships and made two appearances in the MHSAA State Tournament. Perhaps the most special part of his coaching career was being able to share his success with his wife, Kay, and their daughters, Roxie, who served as the team statistician, and Britta, who was a standout player. Coach Stephens concluded his career in education by serving as a principal at Dexter Attendance Center. He was extremely proud to see the students he taught and coached become successful adults and found immense joy in bumping into them and catching up.
Before beginning his career in education, John Buford worked as a radio DJ for WMLC in Monticello and WIGG in Wiggins. Radio and music were two of his favorite hobbies. In retirement, Coach enjoyed recording “Yesterday’s Best” for WDROFM in Monticello. In addition to his love for music, he also enjoyed collecting classic cars, supporting Britta’s basketball team, and going on junkin’ trips with Roxie. He also loved spending time with his most loyal canine companion, Molly.
A funeral service was held April 12 at Jayess Baptist Church, with burial at Greenland Baptist Church in Union. Wilson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
