Obituary of Stephen Thomas Staley

  Stephen “Steve” Thomas Staley, a beloved husband, father, son, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 58 on December 28, 2024, in Virginia Beach, Virginia after losing his long battle with cancer.Born on December 13, 1966, in San Diego, California, Stephen lived a life of remarkable service, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family and country.

  From a young age, Stephen displayed a strong sense of duty and compassion, qualities that would define his life’s journey. He proudly served in the United States Navy for 20 years, including time spent deployed in Iraq in the early days of The Global War on Terror. His bravery, sacrifice, and steadfast loyalty to his shipmates and mission exemplified the very best of what it means to serve. He carried the lessons of service–strength, resilience, and integrity–into every aspect of his life. After his many years of active duty, Stephen continued to serve his county in Maritime Operations until retiring in 2024. He always felt a great admiration for those he worked with in Carrier Strike Group Four, and thought of them fondly in his final days.

  In 1991, Stephen married the love of his life, and best friend, Temple Moore Staley. Their 34 year marriage was a testament to Stephen's dedication to family. Together they lived a life of love, laughter, and enduring devotion to one another.

  As a father, Stephen was a guiding light and source of strength for his sons, Joshua Boyd Quintanilla-Staley, Zackary Ray Staley, and Ricardo Miguel Quintanilla-Staley. In them, he instilled his values of kindness, determination, and love. His legacy will live on in their hearts and lives. Ask anyone who knew Stephen, his family was his greatest pride and joy, and he always made time to be present and engaged in their lives, no matter the challenges he faced.

  Beyond his roles as a sailor and family man, Stephen was a friend to many, known for his warmth, humor, and generosity. He had an uncanny ability to make those around him feel valued and supported, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he met.

  Stephen is survived by his wife, Temple Moore Staley; sons, Joshua Boyd Quintanilla-Staley and Zackary Ray Staley; son-in-law, whom he loved as his own, Ricardo Miguel Quintanilla-Staley; his parents, Patricia Jean Staley and Larry Ray Staley; sister-in-law, Jane Moore; sister, Samantha; brother, Micheal; nieces, Patience, Courtney, and Rebecca; nephews, Aaron and Jake; great nieces, Emily and Isabella; great nephew, Logan; his fur-babies, Brodie, Lizzy, Brandy, and Annie Earl; and his grand fur-babies, Joyce, Olivia, and Meredith. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Henry Boyd Moore; mother-in-law, May Jewel Moore; and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

  In lieu of flowers, Stephen’s family ask that donations be made to Hope for Life, a Virginia Beach animal rescue for abandoned, abused, and neglected pets; where Stephen and Temple adopted their beloved Brodie and Annie Earl. Stephen always believed in the “adopt, don’t shop” initiative and dedicated time, money, and effort into ensuring the betterment of the lives of forgotten or neglected animals.

  A Celebration of Life will be held on January 11, 2025 to honor Stephen’s memory and the incredible impact he had on the world. Though our hearts are heavy, we take solace in the memories made with Stephen, and the enduring love he gave to all. He will forever remain in the hearts of his loved ones, as a beacon of love, strength, and honor. Rest in peace, Stephen. Your legacy will live on in your family, and all those whose lives you touched.

Celebration of Life

     ● January 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM

     ● Ocean Lakes Community Club House

     ● 881 Old Dam Neck Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23454

     ● Additional parking on Wellsford Drive by the pool

https://www.hopeforliferescue.com