Peter Warren Stein, known affectionately as Pete to his friends and family, was a beacon of light and a pillar of strength to all who knew him. Born on November 26, 1941, in
Bay Shore, New York, Pete's journey through life was marked by dedication, service, and a deep-seated love for his community. On January 5, 2026, in
Austin, Texas, Pete concluded his earthly chapter, passing away due to heart failure at the age of 84.
Pete's early life in Bay Shore was filled with the promise of a bright future. He completed his education at Bay Shore High School, where he first displayed his leadership qualities and relentless work ethic. His commitment to serving others was further evidenced by his enlistment in the Air Force Combat Support Strategic Air Command, where he honed his skills and discipline that would serve him in his later career.
Upon completing his military service, Pete embarked on a career in data processing, working at Austin National Bank and Frost Bank in San Antonio. He quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a data processing manager at Austin Savings and Loan. His remarkable organizational skills and dedication to excellence caught the eye of IBM Texas Employees Federal Credit Union, where he served as an administrative manager for 37 years.
Pete met his wife, Joyce, in 1960 at the Pig Stand in Austin, and they were married in September of 1961. The two were inseparable and were married nearly 64 years.
Pete and Joyce devoted themselves to their children, Melanie and Pete Jr. Pete was a proud father, who encouraged his children to treat people with kindness and pursue happiness.
Pete's faith was the cornerstone of his life. Ordained as a deacon at Universal City Baptist Church, he went on to serve as chairman of the deacons at Congress Avenue Baptist Church and Westoak Woods Baptist Church. His devotion to God and his community shone through his involvement in various capacities, including singing in the church choir and participating in a barber shop quartet.
A man of many interests, Pete's love for baseball was unparalleled. He was an avid sports enthusiast, enjoying everything from umpiring Boys Baseball in Live Oak, Texas, to playing on church softball teams. His competitive spirit was also evident in his love for pinochle, playing many spirited games with his brothers J.C. and Paul.
He also enjoyed dominoes and board games, which he often played with his beloved wife, Joyce.
Pete's commitment to community service was unwavering. He was a proud member of the SERTOMA (Service to Mankind) Club, the Jaycees, and the Lions Club. He believed in the power of mentorship and dedicated his time to mentoring with Junior Achievement. A lover of the arts, Pete also enjoyed attending plays and musicals, reflecting his appreciation for the beauty of storytelling and music.
In his journey through life, Pete traveled all over Texas to attend Southern Gospel concerts, a testament to his deep love for music and faith. He was a longtime Sunday School teacher for both youth and adults, sharing his wisdom and guiding others in their spiritual walk.
As we remember Pete, we reflect on the words of the Apostle Paul: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7). Pete indeed fought the good fight, serving his community, his church, and his family with unwavering faith and love.
Peter Warren Stein's legacy is one of love, service, and commitment. His life was a testament to the values he held dear, and his impact will continue to be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we bid farewell to Pete, we celebrate a life well-lived and a soul now at rest in the loving arms of his Savior.
Pete is proceeded in death by his wife Joyce, his parents Julius and Georgiana Stein, his father-in-law Lee Roy Adams and mother-in-law Inez Adams, his sister Juliana and his brother-in-law Al Kraus, his sister-in-law Dorothy Stein and his son-in-law Bob Linder.
Survivors include daughter Melanie Diane Linder, son Peter Warren Stein Jr., daughter-in-law Delia Sanchez Stein, brothers J.C. Stein and Paul Stein, several nieces, nephews and other loving family members and friends.
The family would like to thank the staff at Legend Oaks Rehabilitation and healthcare of Kyle, Texas, for their compassionate care over the last couple of months of Pete's life.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the Harrell Funeral Home of Austin. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in the chapel of Harrell Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Live Oak Cemetery,
Manchaca, Texas.
Memorial contributions may be made to RBI Austin,
American Heart Association or a
charity of your choice.