Stephen Dye
Brothers and sisters, family and friends, we gather here today to celebrate the life of Stephen Wayne Dye, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Stephen was born on August 5, 1956, in Corona, California, and on November 26, 2025, at the age of 69, the Lord called him home in Joplin, Missouri.
Stephen was the son of Pilgrim (Bud) Martin Dye and Lonene Dye, and the loving brother of Gregory Martin Dye and David Kevin Dye. He shared his life with his devoted wife, Susan Lynn Dye, and together they built a family rooted in faith and love. Stephen was blessed with children and grandchildren who were the joy of his life:
Joshua Goodhue of Joplin, MO
Daniel Goodhue of Joplin, MO
Travis (Rachel) Goodhue of Joplin, MO
Christoffer (Joy) Dye of Boise, Idaho
Sarah (Chuck) Simpson of Joplin, MO
Joshua Dye of Joplin, MO
Joseph Gray of Columbia, MO
Sarah (Matt) Branham of Joplin, MO
Stephen also leaves a growing legacy of 17 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren; known to them “Papa” or “Papa Stephen”. His family was his greatest treasure, and he worked tirelessly to provide for them and lead them in the ways of the Lord.
Stephen’s life was full of adventure, hard work, and service. Raised in Corona, California, he graduated from Corona Senior High School in 1974, where he wrestled and learned the value of perseverance. He served his country proudly in the United States Army from 1975 to 1978, earning the rank of Specialist 4 and receiving the Good Conduct Medal. He was an M16 and Hand Grenade sharpshooter, a tractor and crane operator, and a man who honored his oath to defend freedom.
After his military service, Stephen built a career as a metal fabricator for 18 years, and was a professional driver for 15 years, even delivering dynamite to the Klondike! He always had an architect’s mindset and loved woodworking, construction, and home improvements. Later, he drove buses for the Neosho School District, where he was beloved by countless children. He loved taking kids on field trips and sporting events—always saying, “The farther the drive, the better.” Stephen had a servant’s heart, and his work reflected his joy in helping others.
Stephen was not only a provider but a man of deep faith. He served as a Trustee at Hope Baptist Church and an Ordained Deacon at Reinmiller Baptist Church, teaching Sunday school and sharing the Word of God. He was a lifelong student and teacher of Scripture, especially the Book of Revelation, and he lived as a witness for Christ every day. His greatest desire was for his family and loved ones to know Jesus and join him in heaven.
Stephen was known for his kindness, humor, and love. He was hardworking and dependable, always ready to lend a hand. He loved woodworking, fishing, camping, and beach vacations with his beautiful wife Susan. He was a technology nerd, a movie lover, and a man who enjoyed charades and laughter with family. His favorite sayings—like “You stepped in what?”—still bring smiles to our faces. And who could forget his first family prayer: “Rub a dub-dub, thanks for the grub!”. Do note however, that every prayer that ever followed was serious. But that first icebreaker prayer for a blended family is a cherished memory.
Stephen’s life was filled with stories that show his adventurous spirit—from making a ketchup sandwich at age two then sitting on his dad’s chest and spilling ketchup so when his dad awoke he thought he was bleeding to death, to jumping off the bed and cracking his head through the wall, to trying to drive a Plymouth through the garage at four, to fishing for hours in the Sierra Nevada mountains with his father and brothers. He met the love of his life, Susan, in 1995, and they married on April 19, 1996, beginning a beautiful journey together.
Stephen was a cub scout and lifelong boy scout who loved the outdoors. His favorite outdoor adventures were camping and fishing. He loved to fish and share his knowledge of fishing with his family, friends, and youth members of the church. Whether fishing for trout in the Roaring River, or Deep-Sea fishing with his kids for Tuna and Rockfish some of his most cherished memories were those simple times, being together, the stillness of the water, and the feel of tight lines!
Above all, Stephen will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his devotion to family, and his example of what it means to be a strong Christian man. He taught his children to work hard, never give up, and always put God first. He showed us how to love, how to serve, and how to live with integrity. His legacy is one of faith, family, and love—a legacy that will endure for generations.
As we say goodbye today, we take comfort in knowing that Stephen is with his Savior, Jesus Christ. He has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. And now, he has received the crown of righteousness promised to all who love His appearing.
Let us honor Stephen by living as he did—with love for God, love for family, and a heart ready to serve. May we find peace in the words of Scripture: “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” (Matthew 25:21)
Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park crematory of Joplin, MO.
