Stephen L Stone

Stephen “Steve” Stone was born in rural South Dakota on December 18, 1947 to parents Clifford and Lillian Stone. He spent his early years with his siblings, Michael and Susie, before the family moved to Cicero, Illinois, where Steve spent his formative years and Attended school. He excelled academically throughout his school years and later earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Taylor University, where he graduated summa cum laude and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa.

Steve served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, providing vital mental health support to returning soldiers and earning a commendation for his service. After his service, he Married his beloved Dee in Illinois and together they moved to Tucson, Arizona. Steve continued his education at the University of Arizona, earning both an Ed.S. and M.Ed. in Educational Psychology.

His career as a school psychologist spanned more than forty years, beginning in Colorado Springs, Colorado. While there, Steve and Dee welcomed their two sons, Michael and Daniel. The family later settled in Glendale, Arizona, where Steve continued his work in the Glendale Union and Litchfield School Districts. He was known for his deep compassion, unwavering commitment to children’s well-being, and the positive impact he made on countless lives. Steve retired in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication.

In retirement, Steve continued to pour love into a smaller group of children – specifically, his grandchildren. Whether singing to a fussy baby, playing with the older kids in the pool, coaching, or offering a listening ear, he was a constant source of love and support. He also enjoyed woodworking, crafting toy boxes, bubble gum dispensers, toy cars for Operation Christmas Child, and custom flower boxes for a grandchild’s wedding.

Steve was a faithful member of Desert Springs Community Church, where he found joy in leading men’s Bible studies and mentoring others. His life was a testament to quiet strength, steadfast faith, and the enduring importance of family.

Steve passed away peacefully at home on October 21, 2025. He is survived, by his devoted wife, Dee; sister, Sue; sons and daughters-in law, Mike (and wife Rebecca) and Dan (and wife Melissa); nephew Kevin (and wife Jennifer); niece Gena (and husband Shane); grandchildren Lincoln, Hannah, Hudson, Liliana, Izzie and Ivory; honorary grandchildren Justin (and wife Natalie), Megan (and husband Delaney), Allison, Kaylee (and partner Hunter), and Jacob; and great-grandson Theo.

He leaves a legacy of faith, and his family is comforted by their memories of this amazing man and the knowledge that they will be reunited with him someday in heaven. Friends who were blessed to have known Steve are welcome to join his family in remembering Steve at a memorial service at Desert Springs Church on Saturday, November 1, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Steve’s memory to the Desert Springs Church “Meals & More Ministry.”