Steven Russell Platt

Jacksonville - Steven Russell Platt, Sr. passed away on November 11, 2023. He was doing what he loved, walking through the woods with his hounds. He grew up in Gainesville as the youngest of 3 sons. He was his father's pride and joy. Always helping on the farm, faithful hunting companion and caretaker. He was very proud of his son, who majored in chemistry at Auburn University. He started working for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement's crime lab right out of college and worked there his entire 30-year career. He started developing photos in the lab and went on to serve as the lab's Chief of Forensics for many years where he played a key role in many high-profile cases and was instrumental in building the crime labs in downtown Jacksonville. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, football, working around the house on various projects and spending time with loved ones. For many years he celebrated marriage with his wife, Deborah Smith Platt, by hosting the annual crawfish boil for their anniversary. It was at these celebrations that Steve was the happiest. Surrounded by family and friends, celebrating life, enjoying the moment and time with them. He was a very generous man. Over the course of his life, he donated over 50 gallons to the Blood Bank and, for many years he and his wife actively participated in the Chili Cookoff and Toys For Tots community events.

Steve's death was preceded by the death of his father, William Joshua Platt II, mother, Lucille Jones Platt, brother Guery Quentin Platt and son, Matthew Travis Platt.

Steve is survived by his wife Deborah Smith Platt, son Steven Russell Platt II, daughter Danease Marie Platt, granddaughters Hailey Mattison Walters and Gracelynn Quinn Platt, brother William Joshua Platt III, extended family Edwin Bryan Smith, Debbie Lea Smith, Bryan Lee Smith, Michele Allen Platt, Adison Lee Smith and Aubrey Marie Smith and many close friends.

The life of Steven Russell Platt, Sr. will be celebrated at 3 p.m., December 16, 2023, at the Mayport Community Center, located at 4875 Ocean Street, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the Blood Bank or Toys For Tots.