On August 17, 1942, Henry and Sadie Stephenson presented to the world their third child, a baby boy, “Bobcat” as he was known amongst his family and friends. Bobcat’s youth, was filled with joyous times consisting of fishing and joining the Boy Scouts of America, where he later earned his Eagle Scouts badge which he was proud and honored to have accomplished.
In his early years, Bobcat developed an affinity for the navy. After finishing high school at the age 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy. It was in the Navy that the kid “Bobcat” became the man we know as Steve.
Steve completed Navy recruit training in San Diego, CA in September 1960. It was at his third duty station in Kingsville, TX, 1965 that he met and fell in love with Connie Daniels who was destined to become his wife and partner in life. From their union two children were born: Stephanie and Eric Stephenson.
Steve loved being a father and teaching his children to be the best they could be at whatever they chose to do in life. It’s a lesson they still live by to this day. He was loved and is sorely missed.
Steve surrendered his life to Christ at Bayview Baptist Church, San Diego, CA under the leadership of Pastor Timothy J, Winters. He was among the first group of disciples to be baptized in the new sanctuary. Steve often said that one of the most humbling moments of his life was being asked to serve as deacon. Whether you asked or not, he would let you know that he loved the Lord and that he was a deacon!
Steve enjoyed an illustrious twenty-two year military career 1960 – 1983. He was very proud to have risen through the ranks in record time to Master Chief in his beloved Navy. He was the recipient of many medals, plaques, outstanding service awards and consistently high evaluations for excellence.
After military service Steve began his search for a second career. He found it with the San Diego Probation Department, Camp Barrett, where he served 16 years until his retirement in February 2005.
Steve (Bobby) shared a beautiful Christmas with family and friends before setting sail for that distant shore where God greets all His children. He departed this life December 31, 2023. He was preceded in transition by his Mother, Sadie, Father, Henry, two brothers, Richard and Theodore and daughter Dorothy.
He is survived by his wife Connie, daughter Stephanie, son Eric, daughter Beverly, sisters Dorothy Williams and Carol Sue Green and numerous grand children, great grand children and recently a great great grand child, nieces, nephews, family and friends.
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