James Lee Stephens

James Lee Stephens, age 88 of Madison formerly of Wautoma passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at Agrace Hospice Facility in Fitchburg. He was born March 25, 1938 in Peoria, IL to Lee and Ellen Morrison Stephens.

Jim spent most of his career managing infectious disease research studies in a laboratory at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison, WI, traveling to work via bicycle from his Vahlen St. home near Oscar Mayer whenever the weather allowed. For a lengthy stretch in the 1980’s and 1990’s, he also taught introductory computer courses for Madison College at night to adult learners.

In his free time he enjoyed nature, geology, woodworking, computers and animals –especially his beloved yellow lab, Lucy. And boy did he have a passion for reading. His book collection could have filled a small library. A retirement move to a 5 acre parcel in Wautoma gave him plenty of space to expand his collection.

Most of all, he loved his family. He was devoted to his wife, Arlene, a Chicago native he met working at a research lab in central Wisconsin. He exposed his children to museums, hiking and long bike rides. His grandchildren got something to throw, light on fire or break open whenever they saw him. His best friend was his brother, Jerry.

Though ultimately he didn’t align his faith with a specific religion, Jim had an off-and-on relationship with the Bahá’í faith throughout his adult life and believed that something was coming next. If that’s true, he’s out there somewhere telling stories to anyone who will listen.

Jim is survived by his children: Catherine (James) Mulvey, Mt. Morris, WI, Jason (Ana) Stephens of Madison, WI; grandchildren: Owen Mulvey, Evelyn Stephens, Brady Stephens and Samantha Stephens; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Arlene Stephens; son: Eric Stephens; brother and sister-in-law: Jerry & Mary Stephens; sister and brother-in-law: Judith & Daniel D. Frye.

Private burial will take place at Wautoma Union Cemetery with a Celebration of Life Gathering at a later date. Memorials can be made in Jim’s name to: Madison Public Library Foundation https://mplfoundation.org/donate/ or Wautoma Public Library https://wautomalibrary.org/