Stephen Griffin Propst

Stephen Griffin Propst, 57, died unexpectedly, of natural causes, on Monday, June 13, 2022, at his home in Atlanta, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his parents Judge Robert Bruce Propst and Elna "Jo" Griffin Propst. He is survived by his brother David (Janet) and niece, Lyric, as well as his sister Joanne Finkle(Andy) and nieces, Eleanor and Lily. He also leaves behind his beloved cousins, the Griffins: Carrie, Sallie, and Ashley. In addition to his godson, Cameron McClellan. Other "survivors" include a sea of friends, co-workers and so many he supported as a mental health advocate for more than two decades. Stephen was born and raised in Anniston, Alabama. He was a happy, impulsive, and inquisitive boy, who managed to retain his child-like sense of wonder throughout his life. He was remarkably intelligent and quick witted. He also had the natural ability to Lead. Stephen excelled academically and won many awards and accolades throughout his life. He graduated Valedictorian of the Donoho School Class of 1982, served as the Student Government President, and was later named an outstanding Alumni of the Year. He stayed in touch with his childhood friends and died just shy of the class 40 Year Reunion, which he was helping coordinate. Upon graduation, Steve accepted a full scholarship to Vanderbilt University, but decided to return to his home state and attend The University of Alabama, here he graduated with Honors. He went on to Michigan State and earned an MBA in Hotel & Restaurant Management. Steve was ready to take on a career when fate intervened and changed the course of his life. Shortly after completing his education, Stephen was diagnosed with Bi-polar Depression. The period following his diagnosis was not easy. At times, he struggled to make it day to day, overcome with clinical depression. But Steve, being Steve, dug in and did everything he could do to take charge and learn to manage his Bipolar Disorder. He refused to be a victim or give in to a diagnosis. He had a destiny to fulfill. He worked hard and was quite successful. Stephen's career as a Mental Health Advocate had found him, and it became his calling. He was an accomplished Author, Speaker, and Mental Health Advocate. He led Group Therapy sessions, spoke at Medical conferences, trained Law Enforcement on Best Practices when dealing with the mentally ill and addressed college Freshmen to discuss Mental Health Self Awareness. He wrote regularly for BP Magazine and served as the President of the Metropolitan Atlanta chapter of the DBSA (Depression Bi-polar) for 17 years. He coached, supported and sometimes, literally, saved someone's life. Stephen was a Christian and lived his faith. He was honest and loving and respectful to everyone. He particularly enjoyed working with the Senior Citizens at his church. If you knew Stephen, you knew he was hilarious, and found humor in just about everything. He embellished stories, laughed out loud and thoroughly entertained everyone throughout his life. He also loved to travel-to major cities like Chicago, as well as small towns throughout the southeast. He loved cruises, theme Parks, including Six Flags and Dollywood, as well as Halloween Haunted Houses and small-town festivals. He liked to go to lunch or see a live show-anything from Little Theatre to Broadway-Stephen was always on the move. He never met a stranger, and probably made a friend, or at least a new acquaintance, every day of his life. He was the quintessential southern gentleman, cordial and sincere. He followed in the footsteps of his family, who valued relationships, and placed little value on the accumulation of earthly 'things'. Stephen's legacy is a legacy of service to others, kindness, and respect to all. Most importantly, he was a friend to so many. His death is a significant loss to all of us who loved him deeply, but we celebrate the time we had and the wonderful memories. As a Christian friend, I imagine him at the Gate being greeted by so many who have gone before him, his body and mind completely restored. I know he is safe and overwhelmed with joy as he enters his forever home with Christ, his Creator. Please Join us for a Celebration of Stephen's Life on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at The Donoho School, Cafetorium, 2501 Henry Road, Anniston, Alabama, at 11:00 am. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Stephen's family: Attention Mrs. Joanne Finkle, 220 Willowbend Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278. Donations in Stephen's memory may be sent to The Donoho School at the above address. DBSA (Metro Atlanta Depression Bipolar Alliance) They can be reached at atlantamoodsupport.com. Any Mental Health Organization you support. Cremation services were provided by: McDonald & Sons Funeral Home 150 Sawnee Drive Cumming, Georgia 30040