Just today I learned that Stephen passed away nearly 2 years ago. I am stunned. He and I had very great exchanges although we agreed on nothing. I just can’t believe it. I will say this about him though – he was extremely respectful and knowledgeable. I sincerely grieve his absence.

I do not have the words to convey how much I will miss Stephen.  His humor, his knowledge and his dedication to his calling was inspiring.  We shared a love for our military and veterans and had long conversations about politics, some funny and some not so funny.  He was a constant at our Federated Republican Women's Club meetings in Plant City and I remember how pleased I was when he walked in the door.  His parents and loved ones should take comfort in knowing how loved and appreciated he was in our lives.  I have hundreds of text messages and Face Book Messenger messages from Stephen that I will keep as long as possible.  He shared his recent travels with me and I will never forget his excitement about dog sledding in Alaska.  Rest in peace, my kind and humble friend, till we meet again.  

I had never met Stephen but it took only one phone call for him to offer to meet with me to help with our difficult issue. That meeting took place the end of May.  He treated me with so much kindness and respect...promising to take this to DC in June and work to get us resolution.  He never made that trip.  Our next conversation was the day he returned from his mom's after his June 2nd heart attack.  But he was happy to be starting on rehab...diet and excercise...and getting back to helping all of us. 
What a shock to receive the call he had passed.  This was a young man with a true heart for all people...and a love for his Lord and Savior.  Stephen was one in a million...he will be greatly missed.  May the sorrow the family is now experiencing be matched with the joy in knowing Stephen has been welcomed home as one of God's own precious sons.  
"Jesus said...'I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in me will live even after dying.'..."  (John 11:25)

I will always treasure Stephen's sly laughter.  He always seemed to be slightly ahead of the crowd with the  timing of his humor...like he already knew the punchline of every joke ever.  Most of all, however, it is his unsurpassed passion for his work that will endure the most.  His dedication served as a role model for all; his  selfless and tireless  devotion to the cause knew no bounds.  He will be missed...

For the family of Stephen Gately, please know what a wonderful friend he was so many. Kind, compassionate, dedicated to the cause and always available when you needed him. The world needs more souls like Stephen, not less. Heaven took one of the best among us, and he will always be remembered. 

Wish I could attend and celebrate Stephen's life but need to remain in DC. I will continue to think of the example he set for all..kindness. compassion, and love of country. I am not sure I ever met a kinder soul. Rest in peace my friend. 

Stephen was a true statesman, he genuinely cared for the people he was helping. One of his greatest passions was helping or Veterans I remember spending the afternoon with Stephen and he had 4 or 5 vets around him just listening to them and to see if there was anything he could do for them. The Veterans of this community lost and advocate,  and I lost someone who could always make me smile when meeting him. He had such a positive attitude.  He will be missed. My heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Till we meet again rest safe in the arms of the Father, Stephen you will be missed.

I am so sorry for your loss. Stephen was a true gentleman and a very special person. I had the wonderful opportunity to work with him at the Office of State Rep. Mike La Rosa. One of the things I treasure from having known Stephen is he was a wonderful friend who was a great listener. He was always there to offer help or support. May God grant all family and friends a spirit of peace during this time of loss. 

OBITUARY

Stephen Gately

Passed away on JULY 26, 2018

Blount & Curry Funeral Home-Carrollwood

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