We are saddened to announce the passing of Stephen aged 81Years. Stephen passed peacefully at home.

In his life-time he was many things to many people. He was the only silent member of the East Whitby School choir, could repair and maintain (occasionally (unofficially)fly) helicopters and race go karts.  He served in Army for 14 years, with one year on a social services project converting a coal barge into a floating youth centre, becoming known as the "Barge Sarge".

Although some family and friends couldn't understand why he left a promising career in the Army, he went on to become a social worker and then a probation officer. Whilst doing this job he worked on projects which have helped individuals as well as shape the justice system.

In 1966, after proving his love to her parents he married Janine and they recently celebrated their 60 year wedding anniversary.  After having two boys they decided that they would open up their house to foster children, treating them with the same love as Stuart and Ivan.

In the 1970s he decided to follow Jesus. He always tried to follow what he felt the Holy Spirit was telling him to do by helping others - whether fixing church lawnmowers, repairing sewage systems, rewiring barns or organising canoeing and camping trips in Scotland. This path led him to working in Dorset then ‘retiring’ to France where he helped lead a church with not much more French than a Gallic shrug.

When he started to become ill with vascular dementia they returned to Dorset where, although steadily declining, he took an active part in his local church - even blagging a bacon sandwich from a ladies only meeting.

He will be sadly missed by many that he worked with, served with and lived with. His Aunt Sis summed him up - he had more heart and care in him than anyone she knew.