Tributes

In Loving Memory of Steven “Steve” Thomas Stamos - A man after God’s own heart – husband, father, friend, and servant leader. On August 7, 2025, the Lord called home Steve, a man whose towering presence was matched only by his unwavering faith, his fierce loyalty, and his generous spirit. Standing 6’5”, Steve was a giant in stature, but an even greater giant in love, character, and faith. He lived fully, gave freely, and walked humbly with his God until the very end. Born on July 10, 1954, in Chicago, IL with a builder’s hands and a servant’s heart. Steve poured his life into creating, restoring, and nurturing—whether it was crafting beautiful homes (including two for his own family), building a treehouse that became the heart of his children’s childhood memories, or shaping stronger communities through his work in development and urban planning. His construction knowledge was second to none, but it was his integrity—his insistence on doing things right or not at all—that truly set him apart. A man of faith and conviction, Steve’s walk with the Lord was the anchor of his life. His faith deepened when he gave his life to Christ at a Cal Thomas event—a decision that shaped every step thereafter. He lived out the words of 2 Timothy 4:7-8: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Steve encouraged others to trust God fully, often reminding his daughter to grow into a Proverbs 31 woman and urging those around him to stand firm for their beliefs, justice, and peace. A devoted husband and father, Steve’s greatest joy was his family. He and Denise built a marriage centered on faith, mutual respect, and unshakable commitment. Together, they navigated life’s highs and lows with courage and grace. To his children, Michael and Kristin, he was the ideal dad—present, encouraging, and truthful, even when the truth was hard to hear. He coached their teams, ran races by their side, and cheered them on in every season of life. Steve believed in loyalty and was a loyal friend and steadfast neighbor. Once you were his friend, you were his friend for life—distance and time made no difference. From his college basketball days (where he earned the nickname “Frankie” for his good-natured lumbering stride) to neighborhood gatherings in Pilot Point, Steve cultivated friendships marked by laughter, generosity, and a mischievous twinkle in his eye. He was the life of the party, the undefeated cornhole champion, and the king of the poolside dance. He could make anyone feel at ease, whether over a cigar with friends, a shared project, or a Hallmark movie he pretended to be watching for the first time. He was an athlete, mentor, and servant. From triathlons to long cycling miles, Steve approached athletics with discipline and joy. He mentored students through Urban Land Institute clinics, volunteered with Meals on Wheels, and worked tirelessly to improve his community. He loved the ranch lifestyle, the Chicago Bears, his famous gumbo, and Bloody Mary’s, and above all, using his talents to serve others. A legacy of courage and hope, Steve faced his battle with pancreatic cancer with extraordinary courage, enduring great pain with the hope of recovery and an unshakable trust in God’s plan. He never gave up—on himself, on others, or on his faith. His final months and days were marked by resilience, deep conversations about eternity, and a readiness to meet his Savior. Steve leaves behind his beloved wife Denise, his children Michael Steven (Michelle), Kristin Anne (Jon Luke) Scally, his grandsons Jon Augustus “Gus” and Thomas Layne and brother-in-law Terry (Tonya) Tennison, and countless friends and loved ones whose lives he touched. Steve believed that life was meant to be lived fully and freely. To honor Steve’s memory, plant a tree, help a stranger, cook for someone in need, adopt a rescue dog (a boxer if possible), or try something new with joy. Most importantly—tell your loved ones you love them and encourage them to believe they can accomplish whatever they set their minds to. Steve’s own words remind us: “Don’t sell your saddle. Be fully engaged. Have faith in your abilities. Keep pursuing your dreams.” Though Steve’s earthly race has ended, his example will continue to inspire. And for those who share his faith, this is not goodbye—"it’s see you at supper time.” 2 Peter 3:8-9 But do not forget this one thing, dear friends. With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years is like one day. Private services are being held to honor Steve, and a Celebration of Life will be held in “Steve’s Way” on Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 2:00PM-7:00PM at a private location. Online condolences may be shared at www.slaymemorialfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Terri Slay and Slay Memorial Funeral Center.

Tributes

Steven Thomas Stamos

July 10, 1954 - August 7, 2025