

Steve was a caring and devoted man whose quiet generosity touched far more lives than most ever realized. He often worked behind the scenes, helping friends, neighbors, and strangers alike without seeking recognition. In many ways, the full extent of his kindness only became known after his passing—a testament to a life lived with humility, compassion, and purpose.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife and best friend, Phyllis (née Wactor), as well as his parents, Joseph and Margaret (née Hastings).
He is survived by his sons, Ryan (Ashley) and Jason (Jerilyn), and his two granddaughters, who brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his brothers, Michael and Stanley, and his sisters, Mary Jo and Peggy, along with their families.
Steve graduated from Dover High School (Dover, DE), in 1974, and went on to earn his degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Delaware in 1978. He began a career of public service with the Delaware State Police in 1978 and was promoted to Detective before joining the FBI as a Special Agent in 1987. He was first assigned to the El Paso Field Office, where he contributed to numerous high-profile investigations, including the Oklahoma City Federal Building bombing, the Atlanta Centennial Olympic Park bombing, and TWA Flight 800. In 1997, he accepted a position with the FBI’s Laboratory Division in Quantico, VA, before finishing his career in the Critical Incident Response Group in Stafford, VA, where he continued his distinguished service until his retirement in 2008.
Steve met the love of his life, Phyllis, at a Dover High School football game in 1972. From that moment on, they were nearly inseparable, building a relationship that endured time and distance until they were married in 1982. Their 42 years of marriage were defined by deep love, unwavering partnership, and a shared devotion to their family.
Steve found his greatest joy in his family. That devotion was most clearly seen not in words, but in the miles he traveled and the time he gave—driving 10 hours across the state of Texas for a 25-second swimming race, or making regular commutes to Northern Virginia and Richmond for soccer practices. He was a constant and steady presence, always showing up. He also cherished time spent together on family vacations, creating lasting memories in places like the Grand Tetons, England, and Kiawah Island. Whether near or far, what mattered most to Steve was being with his family and supporting them in every way he could.
Steve will be remembered for his strength, his quiet acts of kindness, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the values he instilled in those who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service, located at 186 Shelton Shop Rd. Stafford, VA 22554 on April 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 AM.
Please join the family for lunch following the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to one of Steve’s favorite charities: Stand Up To Cancer, the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or Swim Across America.
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