Steven Robert Van Ord

Steven Robert Van Ord, 63, passed away on September 4, 2021 at UNC Lenoir Healthcare in Kinston, NC after a courageous battle with Corona Virus. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Kathy, his parents Lewis G. and Helen E. Van Ord, maternal grandparents Kenneth and Fern Way, paternal grandparents Lewis Van Ord Jr. and Eleanor M. Van Ord.

Steve was the son of Lewis G. and Helen E. Van Ord, born on November 13, 1957 in Warren, PA. He was a 1975 graduate of Eisenhower High School where he participated in the band and cross country programs. Steve and Kathy Black were married on April 9, 1999 at Cherry Point Baptist Church (CPBC) in Havelock, NC.

Following high school he joined the United States Marine Corps at the age of 17 and served a total of 22 years, retiring as a MSgt (Master Sergeant) at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, in 1998. He began a second career working at FRC East as a ground support equipment electrician, for nearly 20 years.

Steve was an active and devoted member at Cherry Point Baptist Church, where he served as the Chairman of Deacons, Youth Leader, Sunday School teacher, Choir, Praise Team, and Drama Team member; and was infamously known as “Brother Lips” for his many euphonium instrumental solos.

You would think that with all of these accolades, Steve would have no additional time on his hands. But not for Eastern North Carolina’s most famous Santa Claus... who made his debut at Havelock High School's band and chorus concert, Christmas 2003, and never looked back.

And finally, he found another love of his life in 2020. His Polaris Slingshot.... His odometer is proof of just how much he loved to “cruise”. He accumulated over 10,000 miles in just 10 months, including a trip back home to Pennsylvania for his 46th high school reunion.

He truly lived life to the fullest and cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. He is survived by: his daughters Emilly Schubert and husband, Matthew of Havelock, NC, Kelly Titus and husband, Ryan of New Bern, NC, his sons Steven M. Van Ord and wife, Laura of Frewsburg, NY, Jared A. Van Ord and wife, Missie of Russell, PA, and 13 grandchildren; his brother Richard K. Van Ord and wife, Kelly of Tidioute, PA, sister Ruth A. Chase and husband, Micheal of Russell, PA, and several nieces and nephews.

Family will receive friends at Cotten Funeral Home in New Bern, NC on Wednesday, September 8, 2021 from 5-7 p.m. His celebration of life will be at Cherry Point Baptist Church on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at 6 p.m. Internment at Forest Oaks Memorial Gardens at a later date.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Cherry Point Baptist Church Music Ministry: Cherry Point Baptist Church, 210 Church Road, Havelock NC, 28532.

Cotten Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Steven Robert Van Ord.