Stephen Morris Shook

Stephen "Steve" Morris Shook, age 55, formerly of Waynesville, NC passed away on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at the John L. McClellan Memorial VA Hospital in Little Rock, AR.

Steve Shook, a highly decorated Master Sergeant, served 22 years in the US Air Force during the Iraq war and Panama Riots. His was a distinguished career, being awarded medals for bravery and dedication, including Humanitarian and Marksmanship awards. Despite appearing tough, he had a heart of gold. Beyond retirement, Steve enjoyed his farm in the Ozarks, building models, handcrafting leather and wood, reading, and wrangling critters.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Shook, daughters Angie (Sonny) Dewey and Kimber Tilley; his mother Debra Moore and father Ron (Mary) Shook, a sister, Barbara (Jake) Shook; his nephew, Anthony Blalock, and his precious great niece, Caroline (Lacey Blalock, RIP).

Steve's home was always open to family, including mother-in-law, Audrey Jones, sister-in-law, Patty Moss, and a menagerie of furry friends. Steve is from a big family, and married into a big family. He also built family, both in the military and in online groups. Steve was both mentor and friend to many. He left us too soon, and we will all miss his solid presence.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 pm on Monday, September 30, in the chapel of Garrett Funerals and Cremations. Burial will follow at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate to the Wounded Warrior Foundation or the VFW–Steve would’ve liked that.

Garrett Funerals and Cremations is caring for the Shook family. www.garrettfuneralsandcremations.com