Steve Ferrell Booker

His educational journey at Mississippi State University, where he studied electrical engineering, was interrupted by his courageous service in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He proudly served aboard the USS Preble off the coast of Vietnam and was a member of the Navy’s Bluejacket choir.

Before deploying, Steve married the first love of his life, Patty Gross of Iuka, Mississippi, embarking on a beautiful 50-year journey together before her passing in 2014. Their union blessed them with four children: Darren (Laura), Alana (Glenn), Shanna (Brad), and Brennan (Leslie), along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Following Patty's death, Steve found love again with Heather Sowell of Jackson, Tennessee, whom he married and cherished deeply during his remaining years. He embraced her family as his own, inheriting four bonus children in Meagan Box, Madison Monty (Christopher), James Austin Box and Joshua Aiden Box, along with numerous grandchildren. He found comfort and companionship in their shared life and his dedication to providing for his family and caring for his wives never wavered.

He was a tireless worker, providing for his family up until the very end. Steve worked as a machinist and was an exceptional tool and die maker and welder. He loved going to work and he loved those he worked with at J & J Machine Shop, Quaker Oats, Van de Kamps, Aurora, Pinnacle and Conagra foods.

Beyond his professional life, Steve was known for his joking nature and musical talent. His jovial, kid-like spirit was infectious, he loved to entertain everyone he met with the sounds of his harmonica.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, wife Patty, brother-in-law Jimmy Gross, niece Sonni George Hodge, grandson Brady Booker, and numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Steve's life was a testament to his strength and love. He will be deeply missed, but his memory and traits will live on in the hearts and actions of all who knew him.

A celebration of his life will be held on March 19, 2025 at George A. Smith and Sons South Chapel in Jackson, Tennessee, visitation from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm with service to follow.

Active pallbearers to serve will be Austin Box, Brennan Booker, Brad Wilbanks, Glenn Woomer, Michael Schiedegger, Dallas Sowell,and Aiden Box. Honorary pallbearers will be Matt Booker, Darren Booker, Raine Shearon, Tyler Schiedegger, and Brady Booker (2016-2022)