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Ladies and gentlemen,
Today, as we gather in this sacred space to bid farewell to a remarkable soul, let us remember Stephen C. Smith Sr., a man who lived a life of humility and inspiration. Though his departure left a deep void in our hearts, we are privileged to have shared in his journey, and it is our honor to celebrate his legacy today.
Born on February 27, 1954, to the late Jean and William Smith in New Haven, Stephen was a precious gift to his family. As the second child, he brought joy and laughter into their lives, alongside his late siblings, Mary Smith and William "Billie" Smith. From an early age, Stephen walked a path filled with compassion, curiosity, and an undying love for others.
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As a young man, Stephen attended West Haven High School and later dedicated himself to his late father's fishing business, Bill Smith Enterprises. The work he did was a testament to his unwavering dedication and his commitment to his family's legacy.
In 1979, Stephen stepped into the role of fatherhood, embracing the loving responsibility of raising two beautiful daughters: Stephanie and Mary Elizabeth. Their childhood memories are painted with vivid splashes of their father's playful spirit. From dressing up and playing dolls to creating enchanting treehouses and ice skating rinks in the backyard, Stephen reveled in the joy of making his daughters' world a magical place. One cherished recollection is the time spent at his Nana and Grandpa's cottage on Leete's Island, collecting shells at "shell beach," swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring the rocky coastline. Those precious moments etched a picture-perfect scene of wonder and contentment.
In 1986, Stephen's heart expanded even further when he welcomed his son, Stephen C. Smith Jr., into the world. His genuine delight and pride were evident in the nickname he bestowed upon his little boy, "Tiger." Though life took him along a different path from his children's mother, Stephen remained a steadfast presence in their lives. He showered them with daily reminders of his immeasurable love and affection, ensuring they never doubted the depth of his devotion.
Stephen's one-bedroom apartment in East Rock became a sanctuary of love and laughter for his family. Weekends were spent bonding amidst the natural beauty of East Rock Park or finding solace in the spiritual embrace of St. Mary's or St. Joseph's. His playful nature never wavered, and his bag of tricks always brought smiles and endless entertainment. The nights were spent in the cozy embrace of a "pillow trail" where they would giggle and share stories until sleep found them. These treasured memories created a patchwork quilt of love that will forever warm their hearts.
As the years unfolded, Stephen found employment in the manufacturing industry, working at Mossberg and Winchester. However, the foundation of his life remained rooted in his unwavering faith. His devotion to the Lord was incomparable, often attending church daily, offering prayers on behalf of others for hours on end. Stephen's faith was his guiding light, leading him down the path of kindness and selflessness.
To know Stephen was to understand that his heart held an infinite capacity for compassion and generosity. His family and friends were paramount in his life, and he consistently went above and beyond to ensure their well-being and happiness. Stephen touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of crossing his path.
Though time moved forward, holiday visits back to Stephen's sacred space became synonymous with joy and familiarity. Each return home was like stepping back into a time capsule filled with ceaseless laughter and unbreakable bonds. Be it the vibrant melodies of the Beatles or the whimsical humor of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Stephen had a knack for sharing the joy of music and laughter. His annual grab bag ritual, filled with surprises from the church or heartfelt exchanges, became a source of endless delight for all. How we will miss these precious moments, holding them dear in our hearts as a testament to the extraordinary soul he was.
Stephen C. Smith Sr. was a man of unparalleled character, an inspiration to all who crossed his path. His unwavering moral fiber and deep-rooted values continue to guide those he leaves behind, igniting a flame within each of us to live a life worthy of such a legacy.
As we bid farewell today, let us honor Stephen's memory by embracing the lessons he taught us. May his spirit live on, forever fueling our compassion, kindness, and love. And as we embark upon this uncertain road without him, let us take solace in the beautiful truth that Stephen believed wholeheartedly: "My Lord God, I do not see the road ahead of me, I cannot know for certain where it will end. I know that you will lead me by the right road though I may know nothing about it. Therefore I trust you always. I will not fear, for I know that you are with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone."
Rest in eternal peace, dear Stephen C. Smith Sr. Thank you for gracing our lives and continuing to inspire us every day.