Out2News Obituaries
Norma Vale - November 4, 1930 - September 24, 2024
Norma Vale - November 4, 1930 - September 24, 2024 Norma Lou Vale (93) passed away peacefully on September 24, 2024 in Hobe Sound, FL at The Sheridan for Assisted Living and Memory Care.
Norma was born on November 4, 1930 to Robert and Adeline Carey in Wilkes Barre, PA. She was an elementary school teacher in New York State her entire career.
Norma married her husband John (Jack) on December 26, 1951 and they had 3 children: Debbie (Keith) Pattison, Karen Vale, and John (Joyce) Vale.
Norma and Jack moved to Hobe Sound, FL after retirement and enjoyed many years traveling the world and enjoying life in Florida together.
Norma is predeceased by her husband Jack and son John. She is survived by her 2 daughters, son- in-law, daughter-in-law, 6 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.
A family memorial service has been scheduled at Forest Hills cemetery in Palm City, FL on Friday October 25th.
John S Blackard, M.D - October 19, 1942 - September 24, 2024
John S Blackard, M.D - October 19, 1942 - September 24, 2024 Dr. John S. Blackard, 81,of Stuart, FL passed away peacefully on September 24, 2024 after a long but courageous battle with cancer.
John was born to Laverne and Wilma Blackard on October 19, 1942 in Huntington, IN. In 1953, his parents moved the family to Pompano Beach, FL.
John excelled in everything he participated in, from being Captain of the football team to running track and playing basketball. He graduated from Pompano Beach Senior High School in 1960. John went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University in 1964, where he met and married his beloved wife, Gloria that same year. He went on to earn his Doctorate degree in 1968 from the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Dentistry. After earning his dental degree, John & Gloria celebrated the birth of their first son, John Michael in 1969. He then enlisted in the US Army as an officer, achieving the rank of Captain and completing is dental internship while serving. While at Fort Bragg, NC, he and Gloria celebrated the birth of their second son, Robert Harris in 1970.
John and Gloria then moved their family back to Florida, settling in Stuart in 1975, where he would open his dental practice. Dr. Blackard cherished his relationships with both his staff and his patients of many decades. After retiring from private practice, he then worked several years for the Florida Department of Corrections as their staff dentist at both Martin Correctional in Indiantown and Sumter Correctional in Bushnell.
Following his final retirement from dentistry, he took on the most important and rewarding role of his life as Grampa and Great Grampa. His children and grandchildren loved him immensely and will forever remember the priceless memories they shared baking bread, fishing, hunting, woodworking and boating. John was an award-winning woodcarver who won multiple world championship waterfowl carving competitions held annually by the Ward Foundation in Baltimore MD. He was a member of the Treasure Coast Woodcarver’s Club up until the time of his passing. He was incredibly gifted and his talent for creating breathtaking duck decoys, waterfowl and heirloom furniture was beyond compare. John was also an avid reader, completing voluminous novels in less than a day. The knowledge he had acquired over his lifetime would have guaranteed him a Jeopardy championship. He savored his time in and on the waters of Florida & the Carolinas, fly-fishing, river & deep-sea fishing and scuba diving.
John cherished all of his friendships and maintained close relationships with even his high school chums. It wouldn’t be unusual for him to have friends stop by weekly for a cup of coffee, a hilarious story telling session about times gone by or teaching fly-tying or woodturning in his workshop.
John was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Gloria, parents Laverne and Wilma Blackard, sister Marilyn Keating and brother David Blackard.
He is survived by his two sons, John (Rhonda) Blackard of Stuart, FL and Robert (Diana) Blackard of Sevierville, TN, his sister Ruth Fox of Tampa, FL, his grandchildren Samuel Blackard and Kylie Shore of Sevierville, TN, Rusty (Sara) Cooper of Orlando, FL, Christopher (Mandy) Cooper of Port St Lucie, FL and Austin (Bailey) Cooper of Stuart, FL, his great grandchildren, Parker Shore of Sevierville, TN, Levi Cooper of Orlando, FL and Finnley and Rylen Cooper of Port St Lucie, FL and special friend, Mable Murray of Stuart, FL who lovingly remained by his side through his illness.
John will be incredibly missed by all who knew and loved him. At his request, there will not be a service. His ashes will be scattered at his favorite offshore fishing and diving hole in Stuart, FL. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Treasure Coast Hospice, who assured his comfort and provided compassionate support to his family during his transition.
Horace Joseph Hylton Grant - November 17, 1950 – September 23, 2024
Horace Joseph Hylton Grant - November 17, 1950 – September 23, 2024 Horace Joseph Hylton Grant, age 73, of Port St Lucie, Florida passed away on Monday, September 23, 2024.
A visitation for Horace will be held Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM with a funeral service will follow at Morningside Church, 2180 SE Morningside Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952. A committal service will immediately follow at Rolling Oaks Cemetery & Cremation Garden, 2200 SW Del Rio Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953.
Paul V. Ellis - January 26, 1937 – September 21, 2024
Paul V. Ellis - January 26, 1937 – September 21, 2024 Paul V Ellis, age 87, passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at the Trustbridge Hospices Center, Jupiter, Florida after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Ellis, daughters, Kimberly Lynn Smith and husband Brian of Medway, Massachusetts, Katheline Daly and husband Michael of Hampton, New Hampshire and Anthony Ellis of Loxahatchee, Florida. He has been blessed with nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Paul was born in Hudson, New Hampshire on January 26, 1937 to Marie Reine Henri of Saco, Maine. He was one of eight children, five brothers and two sisters. He graduated from Alvirne High School, Hudson, New Hampshire and attended St. Anslem’s College, Manchester, New Hampshire and Rivier University, Nashua, New Hampshire. He served honorably in the United States Army from 1957 to 1960.
Upon discharge from the Army, Paul accepted a position with the New Hampshire State Police as a trooper and retired as a Corporal in 1977. He worked in numerous capacities of interest and enjoyment until his retirement in 2005.
At the age of 23 he met, courted and married his wife, Sandra in Hudson, New Hampshire on July 7th, 1962. They celebrated their 62 wedding anniversary in July. They resided in Francestown, New Hampshire for 47 years and moved to Stuart, Florida in 2017.
He was a great family man and loving father who cherished and spent many hours of enjoyment with his granddaughters, Sarah Allise Myhaver of Hobe Sound, Florida, Megan Nicole Myhaver of Brattleboro, Vermont, Alexa Jade Smith and fiancé Garrett Tessmer of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Lindsay and husband Sean Morin of Milford, New Hampshire, Meaghan and husband George Alurac of Nashua, New Hampshire and Sarah and husband Dan Medina of Lynn, Massachusetts. Paul spent many hours of enjoyment with his grandsons, Brenden Paul and wife Lisa Smith or Ft. Walton, Florida and Brady Tyler Smith of Boston, Massachusetts. He is survived by many nieces and nephews who live throughout the country.
Paul was an accomplished musician who entertained his family and friends on many occasions. He loved boating and dabbled in auto mechanics. His greatest pride was working with wood, spending many hours completing and sharing his numerous projects with loved ones.
A celebration of life will be held in the near future and invite family and friends to share fond memories, lifetime experiences and express their love for this special man. The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Joslin Diabetes Center.
Ronald Edward Winder - November 11, 1935 – September 20, 2024
Ronald Edward Winder - November 11, 1935 – September 20, 2024 Ronald E. Winder passed away on September 20, 2024. He was born on November 11, 1935 in Muncie, Indiana.
After graduating from high school in Hartford City, Indiana he pursued his flying career. He graduated from Air Force flight training in Del Rio, Texas and was stationed at Stallings AFB in Kinston, North Carolina. He was a fighter pilot in the Indiana National Guard and retired from the Air Force as a Major. While still in the Indiana Reserve Unit he was hired by the Lake Central Airlines, which after several mergers became US Air. After twenty five years he retired as a Captain and enjoyed life in Florida, boating, running, biking and bowling. He participated in leagues and tournaments and eventually ran his own successful bowling tournament, the F.S.S.B. Ron was an honest and generous man with a dry sense of humor. He was known for passing out gold dollar coins and for being a good storyteller. He loved sharing stories about his many flying expeditions, both in the military and commercial aviation. And he definitely enjoyed his cigars, both at home and his best friend’s smoke shop.
Ron is preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Virginia Winder, his brother Tom, his son Scott Winder, his sister Nadine Kravis, his brother and sister in law, Gary and Jane Winder. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, his niece, Marti (Tim) Brookie, his nephew Bruce Winder, nieces Bobbi and Jama Kravis and many other family members and cherished friends.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Cecilie Hamilton Cruger - August 24, 1943 – September 16, 2024
Cecilie Hamilton Cruger - August 24, 1943 – September 16, 2024 Cecilie Hamilton Cruger, age 81, Cecilie Hamilton Cruger, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2024, at home on Jupiter Island, FL, surrounded by her family.
Born in Omaha, NB, to Frank and Kathryn Hamilton, Cecilie was raised in Cincinnati, OH, the place of her most cherished childhood memories.
Cecilie studied at Dobbs-Ferry School in Dobbs Ferry, NY, and The Parsons School of Design in New York City. In New York, she met her best friend and husband, Tony Cruger.
The Crugers raised their children in New Canaan, CT, where they lived for thirty-five years.
A thoughtful, generous and loving person with an eye for detail and a razor-sharp wit, Cecilie will be remembered for her dedication to her family and her community. She was a passionate member of the New Canaan and Jupiter Island Garden Clubs, and the recipient of many awards.
At home on Jupiter Island, FL, for the past twenty-five years, Cecilie remained an active and respected member of her community.
Cecilie is survived by her best friend and husband of fifty-one years, Tony Cruger, and by her children, Chris, Tyler and Catherine Cruger, and by her daughter-in-law, Holly Cruger. Also surviving her are her grandchildren: Kiernan, Kelly, Calleigh, Hos and Blaze, and by her dear friend and helper, Michelle Strunk, who has been a rock for the entire family.
A celebration of Cecilie’s life is planned for a later date. Please consider a donation in her name to ether Pivot Ministries (http://pivotministries.org) or The Hobe Sound Community Chest (http://hobesoundcommunitychest.org) – two wonderful organizations very dear to Cecilie.
Martha Whiting Cox - April 9, 1933 – September 16, 2024
Martha Whiting Cox - April 9, 1933 – September 16, 2024 Martha Whiting Cox (Marty Cox) of Hobe Sound, Florida and Nantucket, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on September 16, 2024 surrounded by her family and caregivers. She was 91.
Marty was born on April 9, 1933 in Boston, Massachusetts to William P. Whiting and Evelyn Sargent Whiting. She was raised in Wilton, New Hampshire. She was the granddaughter of David Whiting, who founded Whiting’s Milk in 1857. Whiting’s Milk was recognized as being one of New England’s first distributors of milk and dairy products door to door.
Marty attended the Walnut Hill School in Natick, Massachusetts and Bennett College in Millbrook, New York.
She married William Coburn. Cox, Jr. (Bill Cox) in 1953. They had four children, William C. Cox III (wife: Beatrice), Ann Cox Bartram (husband: Steve), Heidi Cox (husband: Jay) and Martha Cox Farrell (husband: Paddy). Bill Cox passed away in 2013 just shy of their 60th wedding anniversary. She is survived by 10 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. She loved them all dearly.
Marty was a sportswoman and avid golfer. She was a fine shot in the field and a true force with a spirited and straight forward nature. She was never without an opinion and was always ready to share it. Her spirit and her directness were her trademark. However, behind her sassy commentary was a loving and generous soul.
She served on the Board of many notable organizations. She cared deeply, like her husband, Bill, about the Martin County Boys and Girls Club and the Nantucket Boys and Girls Club.
A family only memorial service is planned for November, 2024. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Martin County Boys and Girls Club or Nantucket Boys and Girls Club.
Brenda Rose Snow - March 10, 1944 – September 11, 2024
Brenda Rose Snow - March 10, 1944 – September 11, 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved, Brenda Rose Snow. She passed on September 11, 2024, with her family by her side, at the age of 80.
Brenda was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She had a kind and playful spirit that touched the lives of many. Her warm smile and fun-loving nature will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing her.
Brenda was born in Cambridge Massachusetts to Anthony and Mary DiPietro. She grew up in Watertown and Lexington as part of a large loving Italian family.
Brenda was an avid golfer who enjoyed the many friends she made at Andover Country Club, Hobe Sound Golf Club and Lost Lake Golf Club.
Brenda is survived by her loving husband, John Snow Jr, her son John his wife Amy and granddaughter Victoria (Tori) Rose Snow of Hobe Sound Florida, her daughter Michelle Snow and grandson Frank Mulcahey of Methuen Massachusetts. Brenda is also survived by her sisters Anita Sabatino of Plaistow, New Hampshire and Doreen Piacitelli of Plymouth Massachusetts. She was predeceased by her sister Barbara DiPietro and brother Anthony DiPietro. She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.
A celebration of life will be held in her honor on September 30 from 4-7 at Aycock Funeral Home, 6801 Southeast Federal Highway, Stuart FL, 34997. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to BCRF, Breast Cancer Research Foundation in memory of Brenda Snow.
“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts.”
Michael G. Brezas Jr. - July 22, 1946 – September 10, 2024
Michael G. Brezas Jr. - July 22, 1946 – September 10, 2024 Michael G. Brezas Jr., age 78, of Port St Lucie, Florida passed away on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.
Michael was predeceased by his parents, Major Michael & Margaret. He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth, siblings, Patty and Angelo (Barbara), sister in law, Rose, brother in law, Joseph (Lee), sister in law, Patricia (Ed) and several loving nieces and nephews.
A Visitation for Michael will be held Friday, September 20, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Aycock Funeral Home, 1504 Southeast Floresta Drive, Port St. Lucie, FL 34983. A Funeral service will occur Monday, September 23, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at St. Lucie Catholic Church, 290 NW Prima Vista Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34983 with a Graveside service to follow at Rolling Oaks Cemetery & Cremation Garden, 2200 SW Del Rio Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations payable to Saint Lucie Catholic Soup Kitchen or Dogs and Cats Forever.
Connie Pettway - August 30, 1935 – September 8, 2024
Connie Pettway - August 30, 1935 – September 8, 2024 Willie Mae "Connie" Pettway, age 89, of Port St. Lucie, Fl.
Connie, the oldest child of the late, Will and Jessie Mae Harris, was born August 30, 1935 in Perry, Florida. She was educated in the school system of Taylor County. After meeting the father of her children, they later moved to Hobe Sound, Florida where she became a member of New Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Connie worked as a housekeeper and Home Health Aid on Jupiter Island until she retired at the age of 70. Connie took a break from housekeeping during the late 70's to become a volunteer coordinator at Hobe Sound Elementary where she helped establish the Math Lab! She was an active member of New Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church until she was unable to attend due to illness. In 2018, Connie moved to Port Saint Lucie, Fl, to be loved and cared for by her daughter, Priscilla. Connie loved to cook, bake and create her own recipes to share with the family. She loved to quilt and craft. She was an avid book reader and especially enjoyed reading her bible and newspaper every morning with a cup of cof
fee. She peacefully departed this life surrounded by her loving family.
Connie was preceded in death by the father of her children, Reverend Soney D. Pettway Sr., son, Warren F. Pettway Sr. and siblings, Annie J., Ellar Wease and Priscilla Williams and Lonnie and Will G. Harris.
Connie's love will forever be remembered by her children, Joseph Brown of Perry, FL, Soney Pettway Jr of Gainzville, Fl, Gregory Pettway of Lake City, Fl, Priscilla (George) Franklin of Port St. Lucie, Fl, Stewart Pettway of Port St. Lucie, Fl, special granddaughter, Serenity Franklin of Port St. Lucie, Fl, siblings, Henry Harris of Port St. Lucie, Fl, Billy Harris of Gainesville, Fl, brother in love, James Williams of Williston, Fl, Delores Cartwright Fairbanks, Fl and many loving grandchildren, great-grands, great-GREAT-grands, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
A Funeral service will occur Friday, September 20, 2024 at 11:00 AM at New Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 8224 SE Pettway St, Hobe Sound, FL 33455 with a Committal service to follow at Fernhill Memorial Gardens & Mausoleum, 1501 S Kanner Hwy, Stuart, FL 34994.
John R Stepanick - October 30, 1942 – September 8, 2024
John R Stepanick - October 30, 1942 – September 8, 2024 John Rickey Stepanick passed away on September 8, 2024 at the age of 81 in Port St. Lucie, FL. John was born on October 30, 1942 in McAdoo, PA. He was predeceased by his parents John J. and Amelia A. Stepanick.
John will be loving remembered by a group of close friends and cousins. John was a librarian with the North Miami Beach Library for over 20 years. He held dual masters degrees in the Arts and Library Science. John was a lifelong Catholic, active in the funeral group at St. Lucie Catholic Church and he also had a passion for animals!
A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday October 3, 2024 9:30 am at St. Lucie Catholic Church. The cremains will be interred at a later date at the Holy Spirit Monastery in Conyers, GA.
Gail Marie Guthrie - February 20, 1943 – September 5, 2024
Gail Marie Guthrie - February 20, 1943 – September 5, 2024 Gail Marie Guthrie passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at the age of 81. She was born in Queens, New York to the late Bert Eric Gustavson and late Cyrene Emmy Johnson-Gustavson.
She lived in Port St. Lucie, FL for 18 years, coming from Hollywood Florida after raising her family and retiring.
She is survived by her husband Nolan Guthrie of forty four years. Her daughter, Wendy L Miller and her husband Michael R Susik, her son Donald H Miller Jr and Vita Gunther, daughter Christine A Zeuner and her husband Carl Zeuner. Step-son Jonathon Guthrie and Step-daughter Cassie McClure. Granddaughters Deanna DeFrancis, Amber Zeuner and Grandsons Daniel DeFrancis, Ryan Miller and Aiden Zeuner and Step Grandchildren Cody Guthrie, Parker McClure and Reagan McClure.
After high school, she had a decade career in banking with Atlantic Bank. Then, a 20-year career with the City of Hollywood serving as a bookkeeper and as the Occupational Licensing Manager. She served on the City of Hollywood Credit Union Board of Directories for a decade plus.
Gail was a member of First Baptist Church of West Hollywood from its very beginning when services were held in the school cafeteria; long before the Church was built. Her faith was the guiding force in her life for many years. She and her mother, Cyrene, would attend the Sunday service with her children when they were young and then into their teens.
She loved family, friends, laughing, reading, music, solitaire, travel and TV shows, especially Traveling Robert and Port Protection, all Rom-com and Comedy movies and her backyard pool! She will be missed by everyone who knew her.
A Graveside Service will be held at Rolling Oaks Cemetery on Saturday, October 5th @ 11 am. 2200 SW Del Rio Blvd, Port St. Lucie, Fl 34953 phone: 772-873-2441. If attending the service, please dress comfortably.
Rita Fones Sabagh - December 9, 1937 – September 5, 2024
Rita Fones Sabagh - December 9, 1937 – September 5, 2024 Rita passed away peacefully in her sleep at home at the age of 86. She was born in Washington, DC to Edna and Jack Fones, and was a fourth generation Washingtonian. She lived in Port St. Lucie, FL for 44 years, coming from McLean, VA. She is survived by her daughter, Anne Sabagh and her husband Tony; step-daughters Michele Laughter and her husband Jim, and Denyse Sabagh and her husband, Roger; grandsons, Henry and Dan; great grandsons, Riley, Jake, and Owen, and many friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Mitchell.
After high school, she had a 20-year career with the federal government as a Secretary and an Office Manager, serving many of those years with the Department of the Interior. She also traveled whenever possible with her close friends.
Rita and her husband, Mitch, moved to Port St. Lucie in 1980. It wasn’t the bustling city it is today. In fact, there wasn’t much here. Their house was the only one on the street. The closest grocery store was in Ft. Pierce. Holy Family Catholic Church wasn’t built yet. A lot has changed since then. They made new friends, raised Anne, hosted gatherings with family and friends,and enjoyed playing golf. In fact, Rita once made a hole in one, and also birdied the 12th hole at Pebble Beach, which needless to say, made Mitch a little jealous, as he had been playing golf longer, and actually introduced her to the sport!
Rita was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church from its very beginning when services were held in a local school cafeteria; long before the Church was built. Through the years she served the Church in many roles: CCD teacher, usher, counting room assistant, thrift store volunteer, President of the Council of Catholic Women (a role she served with great pride) and prayer chain coordinator. Her faith was the guiding force in her life. She also volunteered with Meals-On-Wheels for many years, delivering meals to people in her community.
She loved God, family, friends, laughing, crossword puzzles, travel, theater, music, and TV game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune, usually answering before the contestants. She will be missed by everyone who knew her.
A Celebration of Life Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Catholic Church, 2330 SE Mariposa Avenue, Port St. Lucie, FL on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at 10 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rita’s name to the Council of Catholic Women, Holy Family Catholic Church, 2330 Mariposa Avenue, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952.
The burial will be private.
Joel C. Butler - March 14, 1940 – August 28, 2024
Joel C. Butler - March 14, 1940 – August 28, 2024 Joel Croxson Butler, 84, of Stuart, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Joel was born on March 14, 1940, in Pasadena, California, as one of five children born to Joe Jackson Butler and Althea Croxson Butler.
Joel was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Deborah Butler Pipkin (2003); his step son-in-law, Robert Timmann (2006); and in 2020 by his wife, Nancy Irwin Butler. Joel is survived by his son, Joe Nathan Butler (Jennifer) of Stuart, Florida, who he shared with his first wife, Ann Cloud Butler, and Joe and Jen’s children, Micah Butler, Hannah Butler, and Clara Butler; his stepdaughters, Jenny Leasor (Jason); Luann Justak (John), and Carolyn Timmann; his siblings, Jonathan Milne Butler (Marianne), David Slack Butler, and Rebecca Butler Richardson; four additional grandchildren, Alexis, Charlotte, Shannon, and Morgan; one great-granddaughter, Clara; and seven nieces and nephews, Jorie and Lacey Butler, Sarah Butler, Damon and Lauren Richardson, Adam and Amity Pipkin.
In addition to raising their son, Joel and Ann Cloud Butler adopted two children and fostered 27 children during their marriage, for which Joel was recognized as “Father of the Year” while living in Tequesta, Florida.
Joel attended San Pascual Academy and graduated in 1958 from Glendale Union Academy in Glendale, California. He went on to Walla Walla University in College Place, Washington, and transferred to California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, California, where he graduated in 1963 with a B.S. degree in Business Administration.
Following college, Joel proudly served as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy, USNR, UDT-EOD, initially entering the Navy USNR service in 1963 for a term of six years. He then completed U.S. Naval Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, Rhode Island, where he was commissioned on April 16, 1964. He trained at numerous U.S. Naval specialty schools and the U.S. Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal (1965-1966), to become an EOD Officer with EOD Unit Two. He entered active-duty status on April 17, 1964, and completed additional training and numerous duty assignments around the world, including a lengthy Mediterranean deployment. Joel was stationed afloat on the USS Locator (AGR-6); and on U.S. Naval bases at Charleston, South Carolina; Little Creek, Virginia; and Key West, Florida. Joel was Honorably Discharged from active duty in Key West, Florida, in 1969.
Upon moving to Tequesta in 1970 and then to Stuart, Joel owned and operated Marion Motors on Kanner Highway from 1970 to 1985, where he enjoyed working on German import vehicles, meeting the locals, and swapping stories with everyone who stopped by. He maintained those friendships across the years when he worked for dealerships in Palm Beach, Martin, Indian River, and St. Lucie Counties until his retirement in 2020.
Joel married Nancy Irwin Barton in Jensen Beach, Florida, in 1985, and following a brief residency in Chula Vista, California, they returned to Stuart to be closer to their families for the remainder of their lives.
During his life and in retirement, Joel thoroughly enjoyed fishing, diving, golf, snorkeling, walking and chatting with his neighbors in the Southwood community, catching up with his Navy and school buddies, and talking about cars. He also enjoyed spending time with friends and family, especially his grandchildren.
A Celebration of Joel’s Life will be held at 2:00p.m. on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Christ Fellowship Church, 10205 Pratt Whitney Rd., Stuart, FL 34997. A private interment will be held at All Saints Cemetery in Jensen Beach, Florida. Arrangements are under the direction of Aycock Funeral Home Young & Prill Chapel.
For those wishing to make a charitable donation in Joel’s memory, please consider The Ability Tree, P.O. Box 881538, Port St. Lucie, FL 34988 or through https://www.abilitytree.org/ in honor of Joel’s grandson, Micah; or to the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue in West Palm Beach, https://peggyadams.org/.
Stephen Ray Smith-June 7, 1962 – September 7, 2024
Stephen Ray Smith-June 7, 1962 – September 7, 2024 Stephen Ray Smith (62) of Hobe Sound, FL, was surrounded by family as he peacefully went home to be with his precious Lord on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
Stephen (Steve) was born in Nashville, TN on June 7, 1962. His earliest years were spent traveling the country with his parents in itinerant preaching and singing ministry. From the time he could talk he always wanted to be a preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As a young child, he often joined his parents in song both on a platform and in the recording studio.
When his dad left itinerant ministry to pastor local churches, Steve was heavily involved in helping in the ministry, whether through cleaning the church, mowing the lawn, playing his trumpet, or eventually preaching. Steve was a natural evangelist, witnessing to strangers and filling his father’s churches (and home) with needy people and lost souls. He was a natural born leader and entrepreneur, always “rising to the top” in any endeavor he undertook.
Eventually, Steve got married, left home, and went to Hobe Sound Bible College to begin formal study for the ministry. In Bible College he traveled with choirs and quartets as they ministered and did PR work throughout the United States. Then he began to pastor his own churches and once again, his passion for people and his persuasive abilities began to fill churches with people looking for a relationship with their Creator. Steve continued in pastoral work for nearly 40 years, eventually becoming a denominational leader at the state and regional level. He also continued his education earning both a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Theology at Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA. As a Certified Coach, Teacher, and Speaker with The John Maxwell Company, he served as a coach to hundreds of leaders in the United States, and over the course of two decades traveled extensively to South and Central America to coach over one thousand leaders in a cross-cultural setting. He was the author of The Development of People and The Attending Implications (2006).
Following his ministry career, Steve became very successful in the financial services sector helping people protect their loved ones and preserve what they'd built through life insurance with living benefits. He often said that he was still ministering to people but on a different platform. Whether in traditional ministry or in marketplace ministry, truly, his greatest passion in life was to lead people to an encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ.
His life wasn’t all ministry and business. As a child he was a Boy Scout, a young entrepreneur (building quite a lawn mowing business), and a musician. He played trumpet in church and in school, marching with one of the top marching bands in the nation. He also participated in state and national competitions in both singing and trumpet. Steve was never into a lot of sports, but he did enjoy golfing. One of Steve’s favorite things in life was laughter - and could he laugh! His laughter was legendary as it often bordered on uncontrollable. Whether with his children or his friends or watching one of his favorite Jim Carrey movies, his laughter was infectious. He regularly sent funny memes and videos to his family and friends.
Steve’s family and friends will miss him greatly, but all rejoice that he is finally and forever pain-free and whole.
Steve was preceded in death by paternal grandparents, Cort & Elsie Smith and maternal grandparents, Ernest & Catherine Hopper, as well as 3 uncles and an aunt. Survivors include: parents, Denzil & Geraldine Smith; sister Stephanie Reed (James) and brother Shannon Smith (Kathryn); beloved spouse, Silvana Espana Smith and step-daughter, Margarita; former spouse, Judy Smith and their children Stephen Aaron (Tony), Abigail Whitney, Anna Kristen (Andrew), Ashley Elizabeth (Andrew), Alyson Katie, Alyssa Kourtney (Isaac), and Alaina Karol (Jacob); grandchildren, Adelaide, Audrey, Anderson, and Shepherd; a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at Christ Fellowship Church | Stuart, 10205 Pratt Whitney Rd, Stuart, FL. Visitation at 10:00 AM, Funeral at 11:00 AM, Interment immediately following services at Fern Hill Memorial Gardens, Stuart, FL.
Following the service, we’d love for you to join us in celebrating the life of Steve R. Smith.
We’ll be gathering at the Cambridge Club House for some food, drinks, and a chance to share memories and support each other during this time.
Location: 8201 SE Constitution Blvd.
Hobe Sound, Fl 33455
Your presence would mean so much to us as we honor Steve’s memory together.
Steve’s family extends heart-felt gratitude to all who invested in his life, particularly over the past year.
Katherine M. Curran - June 4, 1947 – September 4, 2024
Katherine M. Curran - June 4, 1947 – September 4, 2024 After over 54 years of marriage, Robert (Bob) Curran Sr., 81, and Katherine (Kathy) Curran, 77, entered into heaven together just as they spent their life. They passed away peacefully within days of each other at their home in Hobe Sound, Florida. Kathy passed on Wednesday, September 4th, 2024 and Bob followed his bride to heaven on Sunday, September 8th, 2024.
Bob was an esteemed alumnus of Rutgers University, a dedicated violinist and a longtime friend of Bill W (over 55 years). The middle of three children, Bob was born on June 26th, 1943, in Newark, NJ. Bob developed a passion for Plant Pathology that "sprouted" into a master’s degree in Botany, lead him to a "fruitful" career at the Rhom and Haas Company and ended in a well "rooted" retirement as a local Master Gardner. Bob modeled the wonder of knowing and eagerly studied history, religion, philosophy and music. He was a true lifelong learner and proud member of the Phi Beta Kappa Society. Bob also enjoyed playing cards (mostly Hearts, Pinocle, and Bridge) with his friends and family, a pastime he acquired during his years as a Hospital Corpsman in the Navy.
Kathy was a cherished individual, known for her kind, caring and humorous personality. The middle of five children, Kathy was born on June 4, 1947, also in Newark, NJ. Kathy lived a life filled with tremendous compassion and service towards others. She was an exemplary mother and human being. She embodied the best of qualities: unconditional love, strength of spirit and an unending generosity that could be seen in her care for her husband, children, grandchildren and countless others. In addition, she volunteered as a Guardium Ad Leitem and was member of the Christ Child Society and volunteer for Mary's Shelter. With her indominable faith, positive attitude and unwavering patience, she was a blessing to all who knew her.
They are survived by Bob's brother, Thomas Curran and Kathy's siblings, Ted Mooney, Robert Mooney and Mary V. Mooney as well as their children, Robert Curran Jr. and Mary Katherine Curran Roberto, her husband Alexander Roberto, along with their Grandchildren, Mario, Johnny and Alexandra Katherine Roberto. Their departure leaves an unfillable void in our lives, but we find comfort in the wonderful memories and strong family bond we shared. Our family ended each visit with a "family hug", a tradition that continues to live on.
A Memorial Mass will be held in their honor by Reverand Aidan Hynes at St. Christopher Church in Hobe Sound, Florida on Sunday, October 13th, 2024, at 12:30pm and following the Mass, their ashes will be laid to rest after at Fern Hill Cemetery in Stuart, Florida. Bob and Kathy cared deeply for the people around them. They were kind and compassionate and made an impact on many lives. In lieu of flowers, consider the good that can be done by sharing a simple act of kindness in their honor. Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers for Bob and Kathy and their loved ones.