Stephen Edward Young

Stephen Edward Young was born on May 23, 1961, in Billerica Massachusetts, the third child of Russell Young and Lucy Ann Young. From a young age, Stephen was adventurous and outgoing, qualities that shone through during his time in the Boy Scouts, where he built a bridge over a local canal for his Eagle Scout Project—a testament to his dedication and community spirit.

He briefly attended the Colorado School of Mines, pursuing his interest in geology, but returned home to Massachusetts to support his family when his father fell ill. In the 1980s, Stephen joined the Air Force, where he attained the rank of Sergeant and was honorably discharged. His time stationed at March Air Force Base in Southern California left a lasting impression; instead of returning home, Stephen chose to start a new chapter there, using his travel funds to put down roots and begin a long career in the auto repair industry.

It was in California that Stephen met Rebecca Jane Young, his future wife of 33 years. Together, they welcomed their first child, Carolynn Ann Villezcas, in June 1987, and married in February 1988. Their family quickly grew with the births of Jessica Elaine Miller in October 1988 and Joshua Arthur Adams Young in June 1990.

During those early years, Stephen was actively involved in the local church and together he and Rebecca opened their home to several children involved in foster care. Fourteen years after the birth of Joshua, they decided that it was time to have more children of their own. Against all odds, they were blessed with three more daughters: Genesis Ikaya Young in May 2004, Lihlah Odelia Young in April 2006, and Moriah Ananda Young in March 2008.

Once upon a time, he was a man of impulsivity and of laughter, a dreamer who could see the light in any tunnel and would move mountains to support the people he loved. He loved telling stories.

He loved his children and his grandchildren. He will be missed.

Stephen is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rebecca, who passed away in 2021, and his father, Russell, who passed away in 2001. He is survived by his six children; two cherished grandchildren, Connor Edward Murray and Hannabeth Margaret Miller; his devoted mother, Lucy Ann; and his three siblings, Jeffery Young, Paula Halbedl, and Mark Young.