Stephen Arthur Whitford

Stephen Arthur Whitford passed away peacefully Sunday at his home August 10, 2025. He was born on March 15, 1944 in Beaufort County, NC. He is pre-deceased by his parents, John and Doris Smithwick Whitford, and his brother, Jay Whitford.

Steve is survived by his wife of 42 years Louise Anthony Kent; his sons James Cleary (Skooter) Blandford and wife Jennifer Jo Armstrong (JJ) Blandford; Douglas Kent Blandford and wife Erin of Hickory and son Beck; William Thomas Hood Blandford and wife Melissa of Greenville and daughter Caroline.

Steve deeply adored his wife, and together they shared over four decades of love and companionship. They were truly inseparable. He was passionate about his work, serving as a new car sales manager at Trent Olds for 35 years where he retired. Steve also proudly served in the Navy as part the Seabees. He was active in the Sudan Shriners Convertible Unit and a member of the Blue Lodge York Rite. In his free time, Steve enjoyed hunting and fishing. His steadfast faith and long-standing membership at New Life Church will always be remembered.

The family will receive friends from 9:00 am to 10:00 am Thursday, August 14, 2025 at New Life Church, 2911 Old Cherry Point Rd, New Bern, NC followed by the funeral at 10:00 am. Burial will follow in Greenleaf Memorial Park.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Craven County Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gift may be made to the New Life Church Youth Camp, 2911 Old Cherry Point Road, New Bern, NC 28560.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Whitford family.