Stephen E. Lewis

Stephen E. Lewis, known affectionately to friends and family as Steve, passed away peacefully at his home in his sleep on Monday afternoon, September 22, 2025, surrounded by family and friends.

Steve was born on August 4, 1945, in Carthage, Missouri to the union of the late Stanley and Caryl Lewis. He attended Sarcoxie High School and graduated in 1963, exemplifying early on the dedication and work ethic that would define his career and personal life. Drawn to further his education, he attended John Brown University for a year, after which he answered the call of duty by joining the United States Marine Corps in 1965, a decision that spoke to his sense of patriotism and service.

On August 16, 1986, he married the love of his life, Carolyn Pennington. Together they were a beautiful example of love to all who know them. Steve worked for a number of years for Schreiber Foods, where he devoted many years as a dedicated and loyal employee. Steve's faith was a cornerstone of his life, as he attended Freedom Christian Fellowship and imparted wisdom as an adult Sunday School teacher. His deep love for music found expression in his involvement with the Gospel Quartet for over thirty years, touching the lives of many through his voice.

Steve's interests and hobbies were as rich and diverse as his personality. An avid outdoorsman, he found solace and excitement in the beauty of nature. His passion for deer and quail hunting in his youth transitioned to fishing and turkey hunting in his later years. This love of the outdoors was only matched by his love for singing and his unwavering desire to help others. Steve's generosity knew no bounds, and he was always ready to lend a hand or share a song.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Bill Lewis.

Steve's memory is cherished by his loving wife, Carolyn, and his children: Melissa Lewis of Carthage, Troy Lewis and wife Jamie of Anderson, and Carolina Chapman and husband Chris of Sarcoxie. His joy was multiplied through his grandson, Davido Tucker, and great-granddaughters, Trinity, Jayden, and Gracie. Steve's sisters, Robyn Petelski and her husband Nick of Frisco, Texas, and Caren Austen of Dallas, Texas, along with a host of other family and friends, will forever remember his spirited and generous nature.

Steve's life was a beautiful tapestry of service, family, faith, and community. His involvement in local outreach and support for the community archery team reflected his belief in giving back to the place that he called home. Those who knew Steve were blessed by his presence, and his memory will continue to inspire and guide them. His departure leaves a void that cannot be filled, but the memories he created will be treasured and celebrated by all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.

Funeral services for Steve are 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 26, 2025, at Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, with Pastors Marvin Hensley and J.R. Mootrey officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Dudman Cemetery. Those honoring his life as pallbearers are Troy Lewis, Chris Chapman, Davido Tucker, Rusty Holden, Bob Filsinger and Matt Chapman. Honorary pallbearers are Dan Lee, Max Mason, Rusty Pack, Lucas Silvils, Andy Silvils and Terry Jack. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 p.m. Thursday evening. Memorial contributions may be directed to Sarcoxie Senior Center, Community Outreach or Sarcoxie Archery Team in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.housh-goodwinfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home, Sarcoxie, Missouri.