Stephen P. Finch Sr. passed away peacefully on July 25, 2024 at the age of 75. A devoted husband to Peggy Finch and a loving father to Stephen Finch Jr., Stephen Sr.'s life was marked by selfless service, unwavering dedication, and profound love for his family and country.
Steve was born on March 14, 1949, in Caraway, Arkansas, to Lois Ethel Finch (Booth) and Paul Houston Finch. Steve grew up with a strong sense of duty and honor. He attended Monette Arkansas High School and went on to graduate from Arkansas State University in 1974, earning a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a major in Plant Science and Agronomy.
Steve's sense of duty led him to serve his country valiantly as a Marine during the Vietnam War. He was trained by the Military Service Schooling to translate the Vietnamese language during his combat time. His bravery, commitment, and unwavering support for his fellow soldiers earned him respect and admiration from all who served alongside him.
After his honorable service, Steve returned to Arkansas and continued the farming tradition he began as a young boy alongside his father. Steve cultivated not only the land but also a deep bond with his family. He nurtured and raised his son, Stephen Finch Jr., instilling in him the values of integrity, hard work, and compassion. Steve was incredibly proud of his son's success as a farmer, hoping to leave his farming knowledge as a lasting legacy.
Later in life, Steve met and married Peggy, the love of his life. Together, they shared a bond that grew stronger with each passing year, enriching each other's lives with love and companionship.
Steve's dedication extended beyond his family and military service. He was an active member of his community, always ready to lend a helping hand and support those in need. His generosity, kindness, and quiet sense of humor left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
Steve was a man of great character, known for his wisdom, strength, and gentle spirit. He loved the outdoors, deer hunting, and traveling on his Harley Davidson motorcycle. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. Steve's legacy of love, courage, and devotion will continue to inspire and guide those who knew him.
Stephen P. Finch Sr. is survived by his wife, Peggy Finch; his son, Stephen Finch, Jr. (Lorna); brother, Phillip Finch (daughters Emily Finch and Jessica Harris); sister: Janet Hardin, niece: Jennifer Hardin; Stepson; James Michael Clark; Stepdaughter: Lisa Archer Tyrrell (RIchard); Stepson John Archer (Kelly). He also leaves his grandchildren, Savannah (princess) and Paul Finch; Ashley, Bryan (Abigail), Garner, and Nicholas Tyrrell; Campbell and Bauer Smith. He is also survived by a host of family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Stephen's life was a testament to the values he held dear, and his passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Per Steve's request, he is being laid to rest at the Tennessee Veterans Cemetery. A brief closed casket service will be held for immediate family and friends at the pavilion at the Veterans Cemetery, 4000 Forest Hill Irene Rd. Memphis, TN 38125 at 9:00am on Tuesday August 6, 2024.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers a donation to the Baptist Reynolds Hospice House be made in honor of Stephen P. Finch, Sr.
