Steve Garland, Sr.

Steve Garland, 60, of Pittsboro, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on September 2, 2025. 

Friends and family will gather at Eric M.D. Bell Funeral Home on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 10 am to 1 pm, with the funeral service beginning at 1 pm. Steve will be laid to rest in K of P Cemetery in Lizton, Indiana, following the funeral service.

Below is a life-story provided by his loving family ~

Stephen Lee Garland, better known to many as “Big Daddy,” passed on September 2, 2025, at the age of 60. Born September 20, 1964, to Eddie and Rita Garland, he grew up in Lizton, Indiana, (Raintown). He was not able to finish high school as he had to go to work on the farm to help the family out

Big Daddy was the kind of man who could fix anything — whether it had wheels, wires, or just plain duct tape holding it together. As the owner of Excavating Masters, and a true jack of all trades, he wore the title of “Mr. Fix It” proudly. If you needed it dug, built, or rigged up, Steve was your guy.

While he loved his work, his greatest pride was his family. He leaves behind his children, Stevie (Tina) Garland, Zac (Beverly) Garland, and Selina Garland; his grandchildren, Haley,Gavin ,Wyatt Isaiah, Lucas and Trinity ; and his great-granddaughter, Juniper Bea. He is also survived by his brothers, Eddie and Rodney Garland, and his sisters, Becky Garland Rhude and Debbie Garland nephew Brian and niece Brittany and his Uncle Floyd and Aunt Loretta Garland. He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Eddie and Rita, who no doubt handed him a new set of tools and told him to get back to work.

Steve had a big laugh, an even bigger heart, and a knack for turning every gathering into a story worth retelling. He was the guy you called at midnight when something broke or needed out of trouble, and the man who gave the best bear hugs.

Steve lived life full throttle, with grit, love, and a healthy dose of humor. He will be missed more than words can say, but his stories, laughter, and love will be carried on by everyone lucky enough to know him.

In In true Big Daddy fashion, flowers are optional — but donations to the family to help cover final expenses are greatly appreciated.

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All are encouraged to share thoughts, prayers, and memories with Steve's family on his memorial page found on the funeral home's website.