Jack L. Stephens, 71, retired executive director of the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA), died Sunday, June 2, 2019, of natural causes in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Stephens retired from the SFRTA in December 2018 after having held leadership positions in the public transportation industry for more than 30 years.
Stephens was named executive director of the SFRTA in February 2014 after having served as deputy executive director since 2003. As the executive director, Stephens was responsible for an organization which had a $119.8 million dollar operating budget and a $117.6 million capital budget. The SFRTA operates Tri-Rail, Florida’s premier commuter rail system, which serves customers 365 days of the year.
Prior to joining the SFRTA, Mr. Stephens spent a dozen years associated with the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) in a succession of managerial positions, including Deputy General Manager for Administration, Interim General Manager/Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President, Customer Development Division, Assistant to the General Manager, Office of Federal and State Relations and Legislative Coordinator. Prior to coming into the transit industry, he was associated with the Orleans Parish Public Schools and the Georgia Department of Offender Rehabilitation. In addition, he served as legislative staff for the State of Georgia Senate and House of Representatives.
He held a B.A. degree from the University of the South and a Master’s degree from the University of Georgia. He also studied toward a Ph.D. in Public Administration/Political Science at Georgia State University. He resided in Pompano Beach, Fla.
Stephens was pre-deceased by his husband, Keith Stoddard. He is survived by his brother, Chris Stephens and his wife Vicki. At Stephens’ request, there will be no memorial services.
Contributions may be made in his name to the Jack L. Stephens Graduate Scholarship at the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) Fort Lauderdale Chapter. Please make check payable to: COMTO Fort Lauderdale and place JLS Scholarship in the memo. Mail to the attention of Victor Garcia, 801 NW 33rd St. Pompano Beach, FL 33064.
