Walter Rogers Stedeford

September 2023, blessed with an instant transition. A Southern gentleman that possessed a

brilliant mind was born in Jacksonville, Florida and attended local schools, graduating from

Robert E. Lee High School. He graduated from the University of Florida where he served as

Treasurer of Kappa Alpha Order and following graduation from Stetson College of Law in 1962,

serving as Magister of the Phi Delta Phi legal fraternity.

Walter practiced law in Jacksonville until his death and was a 60-year member of the Florida Bar

as well as a member of the Florida Family Law Inns of Court (Master). In addition to handling

local cases, he practiced in the U.S. District Courts for the Middle and Northern District of

Florida and the Middle District of Illinois, all Florida Courts and Pro HOC Vice Courts in Iowa,

Kentucky, Georgia, and Nevada.

Walter was a member of the Jacksonville City Council, served as judge for the Florida Public

Service Commission, and was chairman of the Jacksonville Utility Regulatory Board. He

demonstrated his love of Jacksonville by serving on the Board of Directors of St. Lukes Hospital,

the Salvation Army, Pinecastle School, and the Opera Company of Jacksonville, Aside from

Walter’s education, law practice, and community involvement, he was extremely proud of

holding the title of undefeated Singles Handball Champion of the Seminole Club.

Walter was proceeded in death by his parents, Robert P. Stedeford and Louise A. Stedeford, and

additionally his sister, Kathleen Stedeford.

Walter leaves behind his wife, Cheryl Patterson Stedeford, Hays Beatty-Patterson Carlyon (Jean)

(son), Avery I. Carlyon (granddaughter) and Jackson S. Carlyon (grandson), Louise Stedeford

Reeder (daughter), Nathan Thomas Reeder (grandson), Charlotte Jane Reeder (granddaughter),

J.D. Reeder (Keri) (son-in-law).

Walter enjoyed a special, close relationship with his brother, Robert (Robbie) L. Stedeford

(Cynthia), Robert M. Stedeford (nephew), Durene M. Helbling (niece), Matthew Majoli

(nephew), Emma F. Stedeford (grand-niece) and Hanna A. Stedeford (grand-niece).

A gathering for family and friends will be held at a later date in Walter’s honor. In remembrance

of Walter’s love of animals, spend extra time and love with your pet or any animal in need.