Obituary of Mark Edward Stedman

Mark Edward Stedman, of Sylva, North Carolina, passed away on November 6, 2018 at the age of 64.  Mark was born in Miami, Florida to his father, Cresswell Stedman and mother, Jeanne Howard Rothacher. 

Mark had a zest for life; he had a very strong work ethic and charmed everyone he met. He was a thoughtful man - very intelligent- and a wonderful free spirit.  He was such a fun-loving person he was blessed with many friends.  As his life partner, Mark taught me how to think out of the box and see the bigger picture.  He nurtured my growth as a person and never tried to hinder or smother me. He was a true free thinker and taught me how to do the same.  He loved his daughter without measure and was a true example of how fathers should care for their children.

Mark is survived by his mother, Jeanne Howard Rothacher and stepfather, Gary Rothacher; daughter Rhiannon Carithers and husband Justin; siblings Peter Stedman and wife Alex; Dawn Arnold and husband Richard; life partner Donna Jones and her son Isaac Jones, wife Caitlin, and daughter Meena; a nephew, nieces and many cousins as well as his adopted North Carolina family. He is preceded in death by his father, Cresswell Stedman, and his adopted mother in law Mamie Ledford.  Mark’s absence will be felt forever; it is a painful loss for his family, who adored him, and whose hearts will forever ache. It is a loss to his many friends who will miss his infectious laugh, his constant care and concern, and his fun-loving ways. Finally, it is a loss to the entire community that grew to love him.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations can be made to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/ .