Steven Nelson Kearley

1954 - 2025

Steven Nelson Kearley was born on February 12, 1954, in San Diego, California, to Mary and Charles Kearley. At the time, his older sister, Charlene, was almost eight years old. Not long after, his parents divorced, and when Steve was four, his mother married his stepfather, John Carlson. For the next three years, Steve lived the adventurous life of a Navy brat, spending his early childhood on base in the Philippines. Later, the family moved to China Lake, California, where Steve proudly became a big brother with the birth of his sister, Jeannie.
Steve began schooling in China Lake before the family returned to San Diego. There, he attended Alcott and Lindbergh Elementary, Hale Junior High, and Madison High School, class of 1972. Steve pursued some higher education at CEI. He spent a decade working as a liability examiner with GEICO, and from 2002 to 2023, he served as a live-on caretaker at Shadow Hills Elementary in Alpine, where he became a beloved part of the school community. After retiring in 2023, Steve moved with his wife, Lisa, to Yuma, Arizona, where he enjoyed swimming and playing board games with friends.
Steve married Lisa Broderick Kearley in 1992. Together they raised two children-Joseph Jon "J.J.," born in 1993, and Jennifer Marie "Jenny," born in 1996. Being a father was one of Steve's greatest joys. He shared his love for music with his children, often bringing them to concerts or filling their home with classic rock music. In recent years, Steve embraced another role he cherished-being "Papa" to his grandson, Jordan. He found immense joy in their time together.
Steve had an infectious admiration for the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. He also had an unwavering dedication to his favorite football team, the Chargers. He had a generous heart and a creative flair for storytelling that brought humor and imagination to his conversations.
Steve passed away on May 15, 2025. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Kearley; his mother and stepfather, Mary and John Carlson; his sister, Charlene Ferguson; his brother, David Kearley; and his nephew, Jon Ferguson. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa Broderick Kearley; his children, Joseph (Nothi) Kearley and Jennifer Kearley; his grandson, Jordan Kearley; his sisters, Jean (Norm) Howard and Marie (George) Paulsen; his sister-in-law, Tammy Kearley; his nephews, Michael Ferguson and Finn Niemela; and his nieces, Noelle & Sarah Paulsen, Taylor Kearley, and Tiffany Flowers.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Alpine Community Church, 2225 W Victoria Dr, Alpine, CA 91901. A celebration of life will follow in Fuller Hall, just behind the church.
A graveside service will take place Tuesday, June 10 at 11:00 a.m. at Evergreen Cemetery, 201 E Gillett St, El Centro, CA 92243. Lunch will follow at a local restaurant in El Centro.