Stephen Frank Posser, Jr.

Stephen Frank Posser, Jr., age 79, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. He was known by many names, My Love, Daddy, Po, PawPaw, Steve, Frankie, but he will most fondly be remembered as Superman.

Born on August 31, 1945, Stephen was the son of the late Violet Beatrice and Stephen Frank Posser, Sr. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Mary Theresa Posser, and his sisters, Sharon Puma, Mary Taylor, and Starr Posser.

Stephen proudly served his country for two decades in the United States Army, retiring with the rank of Sergeant First Class. During his 20 years of service, he completed two tours in Vietnam. He spent his time on the front lines as a chef, preparing meals that brought a bit of comfort to his fellow soldiers during some of their hardest days. His love for food and cooking was more than a skill, it was his calling.

Following his military service, Stephen worked in civil service for 21 years as a Supervisory Training Specialist in Food Service. At Fort Lee, he played a major role in training the next generation of military chefs and overseeing a culinary program that earned respect and recognition.

Culinary arts remained at the center of Stephen’s life. He had a special gift for pastry work and traveled internationally to compete in culinary events, proudly representing the United States in France, Germany, and England.

Outside of the kitchen, Stephen made the most of every day. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and keeping active. Staying healthy was important to him. He lifted weights regularly and never missed his daily 10,000 steps.

Stephen leaves behind a loving and proud family. He is survived by his children, Theresa Jeanine Jones (Mark Alan), Laurie Lynn Sticklin (Harold Lavaughn), and Stephen Frank Posser III, along with his bonus daughter, Paulette “Ree” Courington. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Tara Christine McGhee (Steve “SJ” Johnson), Christopher James Taylor, Katie Fite (Jay), Stephen Matthew Taylor, William Brandon Bailey (Megan), Cassidy Christine Bailey (Tajee), and Jeffrey Brian Weinz, Jr. (Katie); great-grandchildren, Carleigh, Brayden, JJ, Ivey, Ariella, Jenaci, Callie, Brooklynn, J.B., and Sadie; beloved niece, Aislinn Puma; and other nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. Burial will follow in Bermuda Memorial Park. Friends and loved ones are invited to gather for visitation on Thursday evening, June 12, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Stephen’s memory may be made to Military Assistance Program (MAP), 1333 Blue Creek Road Lot 59, Jacksonville, NC 28540. Online condolences may be shared at www.ealvinsmall.com.