Steve Whitlow

Mr. Steve Boyd Whitlow, age 91, formerly of Gastonia, NC passed away peacefully Tuesday, September 23, 2025 with his family by his side. He was born in Caddo, AL as the eighth of ten children to the late Thomas and Gencie Jett Whitlow. At seven years old, Mr. Whitlow saw the United States enter World War II and watched three of his brothers serve in the Army. Fifteen days after he graduated high school, Mr. Whitlow and a buddy enlisted in the United States Army. He rose to the rank of Sergeant Major with the Army Security Agency Special Forces, earning both his Airborne wings and The Green Beret.

Upon leaving active-duty service, Mr. Whitlow graduated from Auburn University and earned his Master's degree at Florida State University. He devoted his professional life to protecting and serving others first working in social services before his adventurous spirit took him to becoming an ATF agent. Mr. Whitlow built a distinguished career, rising to Assistant Special Agent in Charge at his retirement.

Mr. Whitlow also poured his heart into his community. He lead hospital and animal control boards, championed the American Heart Association, and organized an annual golf tournament that bought Christmas gifts for children in need. Mr. Whitlow loved the outdoors, fishing, golfing, Auburn football, God, and most of all his family. He was a man of humor, principle, adventure, and compassion. He leaves a legacy of service and love that will endure for generations.

Mr. Whitlow is survived by his children, Anita and her husband Johnny, Steve Jr. and his wife Victoria, and Cheryl; stepdaughter, Vicki and her husband Glenn; six grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wives, Bobbie and Anne; infant daughter, Drema Diane; stepdaughter, Kim; and his nine siblings.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Hartselle, AL on Sunday, 10/26/25 and in Gastonia, NC on Saturday, 11/8/25.