Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Stephen Willson Obituary
July 8, 1940 - April 24, 2025
Stephen L. Willson, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at his home in Roanoke, VA.
Stephen is survived by his wife of 53 years, Ruth; daughters and sons-in-law, Lauren (Gordon) Lawson and Romney (Courtenay) Beebe; his grandchildren, Mac, Willson Lee, Luke, Miller, and Clark; and sister, Romney Bathurst.
Stephen was born on July 8, 1940, in New York, NY, son of the late Nancy Lunsford Willson and Eugene Miller Willson. He grew up in Roslyn Harbor and Quogue, NY, where he excelled in athletic pursuits including cross country, lawn tennis, and sailing.
Stephen went on to graduate from Duke University, where he ran cross country and played lacrosse, in 1962, and to earn his law degree from Washington & Lee University in 1965. He then served in the United States Navy, deploying as navigator on the U.S.S. Epperson during the Vietnam War and earning the Combat Action Ribbon, before embarking on his legal career first in New York and then in Virginia.
Stephen remained a faithful fan of the Blue Devils and Generals, cheering their teams' endeavors. He cherished spending summers with family in Lake Toxaway, NC, and took great joy in following his grandchildren's activities.
He brought a quick wit and humor to every situation, always inspiring smiles and laughter. He had a loving heart for all creatures, especially his rescue dogs. Throughout his life he enjoyed cars and motorcycles and supported organizations serving veterans and other patriotic causes. Stephen also enjoyed playing the piano and attending organ concerts.
A memorial service will be held at Heights Community Church in Roanoke on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 2 p.m. with a reception following. Memorial contributions may be made to Angels of Assisi or Special Operations Warrior Foundation. Condolences may be shared with his family by visiting www.Oakeys.com.
Oakey's Funeral Service - South Chapel
Roanoke, VA (540) 989-3131
Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Willson
Sponsored by Oakey’s South Chapel.
5 Entries
Carol Jessee
July 7, 2025
A gift was recently made to Angels of Assisi in memory of Stephen Willson from Alison and Barry Baird 1733 Planters Dr, Huddleston, VA 24104-2871
Carol Jessee
May 27, 2025
A gift was recently made to Angels of Assisi in memory of Stephen Willson from Jeffrey Funk 34 Roselawn Cr Boones Mill VA 24065
Carol Jessee
May 27, 2025
A gift was recently made to Angels of Assisi in memory of Stephen L. Willson from Ed and KC Verdelotti 4048 Falling Creek Dr Vinton VA 24179
Judy Lundy
May 18, 2025
Ruth, so sorry to hear of Steve´s passing. Shirley let us know as we are no longer in Roanoke. I pray God will surround you with his love as you go through this difficult time. Judy Lundy
How you can show support
Pat Funk
May 14, 2025
Steve was a wonderful man. I have known him and his wife for twenty some years. They have been so kind to me. Rip until we meet again
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Make a Donation
in Stephen Willson's name
Memorial Events
for Stephen Willson
People and places connected with Stephen
Roanoke, VA
Roanoke Times
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Stephen's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Stephen Willson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
