James Lee Stevens
October 29, 1960 – December 9, 2025

James "Jim" Lee Stevens, age 65, of Hot Springs, South Dakota, passed away on December 9, 2025, due to complications of cardiac arrest. Jim passed away at Monument Health in Rapid City, South Dakota, with his beloved wife, Darla, at his side.

Jim was known for his heart of gold and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He carried a strong sense of humor that often masked his tender heart—using laughter to hold back tears—earning him the reputation of being the biggest teddy bear with the softest soul. Jim's legacy will live on through his selfless decision to donate his organs, doing so with a great big hug, tears in his eyes, and his familiar calloused hands.

Jim was born on October 29, 1960, to Marvin and Betty Stevens. He was raised with strong values of hard work, service, and community, which guided him throughout his life. He grew up alongside his sister, Deb, and brother, Alan, forming lifelong bonds that remained close through the years.

Jim graduated from Hot Springs High School in 1978. He went on to earn his Journeyman Plumbing certification, later becoming a licensed plumbing contractor, and eventually expanding his professional path into real estate as a Realtor. Jim worked at Stevens Plumbing, along the side of his father, mother and brother where his reputation for honesty, skill, and reliability was well known. Later becoming co-owner and operator of Stevens Plumbing with his brother Alan. He also was a founder, owner and operator of the Western Dakota Strike Team from 1991-2004. In real estate, Jim owned and operated Century 21 Stevens & Associates alongside his wife, Darla.

On October 14, 1995, Jim married the love of his life, Darla Stevens. Together they built a life rooted in love, loyalty, and family. Jim was a proud father to daughters Heather and Sarah, and a devoted stepfather to Jason. Family was always Jim's foundation, and he cherished time spent with his family.

Jim's happiest place was on his motorcycle, riding free and enjoying the open road where he loved the wind and all the smells of the Black Hills. He was also an avid sports fan, especially devoted to the Green Bay Packers—a team he proudly "owned," thanks to a share gifted by his nephew, Seth. Jim also cherished hunting and fishing, traditions he enjoyed throughout both his childhood and adulthood alongside his dad, brother, and cousins.

Service to others defined Jim's life. He was a dedicated member of the Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department, joining in November 1979 and serving for 46 years. Jim held the roles of Assistant Chief and Fire Chief from 2005 to 2017, leading with integrity, compassion, and steady leadership. He was also a proud member of the Sons of the American Legion (Battle Mountain Squadron 71), Elks Lodge 1751, and served on the Hot Springs Housing Commission, always working to strengthen the community he loved.

Jim is survived by his wife, Darla Stevens, of Hot Springs; daughters Heather (Orin) Robinson and Sarah (Ross) Walker; stepson Jason (Nicole) Weitzel; grandchildren Jared, Jennica, Alex, Jayme, Jennavieve (Junior), Riggs, Ryer, Sloane, Layton; sister Deb (Don) Robertson; brother Alan (Michelle) Stevens; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Betty Stevens.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Muller Center Theater in Hot Springs, South Dakota. A gathering will follow at the Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department, where stories, laughter, and memories will be shared in honor of a man who gave so much to so many.

Jim Stevens will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his kindness, humor, service, and unwavering love for his family, friends and community.

Memorial: Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department

Honorary pallbearers are family, friends, and everyone in attendance, reflecting the many lives Jim touched.