Stephen Joseph Gifford's Obituary
Stephen Joseph Gifford, age 68, a resident of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, passed from this life Sunday, January 04, 2026 at home surrounded by his loving family. Steve was born June 07, 1957 to Walter Joseph and Doris Eugenia (Jones) Gifford in Gloversville, New York.
Judy spoke and wrote from her heart, when she said,
"What can I say about the very finest man I ever knew? We met while serving in the Marine Corps and married six months later. We celebrated 45 years of marriage last August. We grew up together, we learned a lot of things the hard way, but the prayers and example of wise dear ones saw us through. Little is much when God is in it.
Together we raised two daughters and enjoyed six grandchildren, one who just met him in heaven. He was a tender, hard-working, humble, faith-filled, loving man with a strong, protector, patriotic heart.
He worked as an A&P mechanic for 40 years for American Airlines and knew the work he did was important. He served as a TPD reserve police officer with majority of that time spent in the motorcycle unit. He loved it so much he served for 34 years without pay and never regretted it."
Steve is preceded in death by parents Walter and Doris Gifford, grandparents Ami and Virginia Gifford, and Abram and Edna Jones, and grandson Owen Lewis.
He is survived by wife, Judith Gifford, daughters Stephenie Shepherd and husband Daniel, Beth Lewis and husband John, grandchildren Rachel, Samuel and Eleanor Shepherd, Kate and Jack Lewis, brother Greg Gifford and wife Carol, sister Connie Daggett and husband Jon, and many nieces and nephews.
The motto of the Marine Corps is Semper Fidelis, Latin for Always Faithful-and, he was in every way. As a husband, father, Papa, and follower of Jesus, I never met a finer man. We will miss him every day until we see him again in heaven. Thank you for the part you played in his life. He was richer for having known all of you.
A Celebration of Life service will be held 1:00 PM, Thursday, January 08, 2026 at the Community Baptist Church, 28052 E 127th St S, Coweta, Oklahoma. It is on Highway 51.
The family has requested in lieu of flowers, make a donation in Steve's name and honor to:
Sacandaga Bible Conference
191 Lakeview Road
Broadalbin, NY 12025
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