Stephen Jack Mendenhall

Stephen Jack Mendenhall, age 76, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 14, 1949, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma to Jack and Ann Mendenhall. Throughout his life he was known as a man of patience, kindness, and quiet strength. In 1970, he met the love of his life, Camilla Marie and were married for 47 wonderful years. Stephen and Camilla later went on to start their family with the birth of their son, John Michael Mendenhall. Stephen’s most proud moments in his life were when his son was born, as well as the birth of his two grandsons, Lincoln and Harrison.

Stephen received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Southern Nazarene University and began his career as a teacher, dedicating 34 years of his life to teaching at Apollo Elementary (Putnam City Schools). There he impacted countless students with not only knowledge, but also compassion, kindness, and encouragement. Beyond the classroom, he lived a life marked by faith and service, giving many years to his church in a variety of capacities, setting an example of humility and devotion. He never sought the spotlight but lived every day with faith and a servant’s heart. He also enjoyed being outside, working in gardens, taking care of his swimming pool, and grilling outdoors for his family. He was also a big fan of OU football. He taught us by example—work hard, and face life’s challenges with grace.

His greatest joy was his family, and he poured his heart into being a loving husband, dad, grandpa, and friend. Stephen was a proud and loving dad to his son John and a devoted grandpa to his grandsons, Lincoln and Harrison. His steady love, wisdom, and gentle spirit shaped their lives in ways that will never be forgotten.

Stephen is proceeded in death by his parents Jack and Ann Mendenhall, his mother and father-in-law Charles and Viola McClure, and His beloved wife Camilla.

Stephen is survived by his son, John M. Mendenhall and wife, Blythe of Edmond, OK; brother Don Mendenhall and wife, Carla of Enid, OK; sister Connie Musgrave of Bartlesville, OK; brothers-in-law Chuck McClure and wife Monica of Oklahoma City, OK and Steve McClure and wife Donna, of Bethany, OK; sister-in-law Susan Thanscheidt and husband Garry of Bethany, OK; grandchildren Lincoln, Harrison, Brooke, Jonah, Julia, and Sarah of Edmond, OK; and several nieces and nephews.

Stephen’s legacy is one of love, generosity, and unwavering faith. Those who knew him will carry with them the lessons he taught—not only through words, but by the way he lived his life. Stephen will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Oklahoma City First Church, 4400 NW Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (located on the south side of NW Expressway between N Meridian Ave and NW 63rd St).