“Kindness.” That one word encapsulates the spirit of the Josh Stevens Memorial. The Josh Stevens Memorial stands as a tribute to a young life that ended too soon. Josh Stevens, a 12-year-old boy, died in a tragic golf cart accident in September 2008.
The Josh Stevens Memorial is more than just a marker. It represents the lasting impact he had on his community. The plaque at the base of a tree serves as a permanent reminder of Josh. It sits alongside “Josh Stevens Ballpark”. The ballpark was dedicated in his name during the Paseo Verde Little League opening-day ceremonies.
Josh loved playing baseball. He was known for his infectious smile. A friend described it as a disability to frown. He attended Bob Miller Middle School. Even though he was there for only two weeks, 300 students attended his memorial service. Josh made friends through sports and in his neighborhood.
His baseball coach, Mike Cofer, said it was clear Josh loved his family. Rocky Savio, a family friend, said Josh’s heart was as big as his body. At the vigil, Josh’s mother, Barbara Stevens, shared memories. She told the children to sing “The Itsy Bitsy Spider” to their children. It was Josh’s favorite song. She encouraged parents to give their children ice cream with chocolate syrup for breakfast. It was Josh’s favorite thing to eat.
Following Josh’s death, his family established the Josh Stevens Foundation. The foundation promotes acts of kindness. Team moms and coaches look for children doing kind acts. Those children are rewarded with a thank-you card. They also receive a shoelace charm and a gift card.
Henderson City Councilman Steve Kirk dedicated the east field at Dos Escuelas as “Josh’s Field”. It was there that Josh built his reputation as a talented catcher. He was known as a kind teammate. A family friend, Robert Zagby, recalled Josh high-fiving an umpire after a tough call.
The Josh Stevens Foundation sponsors the Angels team in all five Little League divisions. Drew Stevens coaches the Angels T-ball team. The Josh Stevens Memorial and the Josh Stevens Foundation ensure his legacy lives on. Josh Stevens’ impact is a reminder to appreciate the gift of kindness. It inspires others to spread kindness throughout the community.