R.J. Stevens was born in Rosenburg, Texas in 1927. He graduated from High School in 1944. His education was pursued at Abilene Christian University, the University of Houston, and Oklahoma A and M, now Oklahoma State University. Brother Stevens and his wife, the former Pauline McKinney, have three grown children: Joseph, Timothy, and Paula.

R.J. has worked with churches in Perry, Oklahoma, three congregations in Houston, San Bernardino and El Cajon, California, and in Madisonville, Pampa, and Nederland, Texas. The Stevens presently reside in Kemp, Texas where he serves the congregation as an Elder and one of the preachers (with his son, Tim). He has for many years traveled extensively doing gospel meetings and singing schools. His songbook Hymns For Worship has been widely used among churches for several years and is presently undergoing an upgrade. The new version is scheduled for release soon. Every summer, he also hosts a popular singing school in Wilburton, Oklahoma.

Brother Stevens has led the singing every year but one for our Southside Lectures. His talent and enthusiasm have brought something special to our lectures, year by year. We missed him last year and are pleased to welcome Brother Stevens back.