Stephen Paul Bristol, age 79, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 16, 2025. He was born on August 23, 1945, in Mobile, Alabama, to Eugene and Doris Kirk Bristol.
Steve was a longtime resident of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. He was of Catholic faith and lived with a quiet generosity that touched everyone around him. He was a proud father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend—loved for his sharp wit and kind heart. After serving in the Army, Steve spent much of his career as an ink foreman and later as a hardwood flooring construction specialist, retiring in 2013. Even in retirement, he never stopped working with his hands. Whether in his home workshop, creating handcrafted leather goods and jewelry, or fine-tuning his home with paint and personal touches, he brought creativity and care to everything he did.
An adventurous spirit in his younger days, Steve traveled across the United States and spent time working on boats—including a notable stint aboard the SS Edmund Fitzgerald. He carried that spirit with him throughout his life, always learning, exploring, and laughing over shared stories.
He especially loved time spent with his grandchildren, and took joy in passing down skills, wisdom, and laughter. He was an avid archer and enjoyed the peaceful practice of shooting his bow and arrow, often finding solace in the quiet moments it brought.
Steve is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Kay Ellen Bristol, and brother, Michael David Bristol.
He is survived by his daughters, Erin Anthony and husband Michael of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, and Jessica Clayton of Lafayette, Louisiana; one Son, Anthony John Bristol of Crestview, Florida; five beautiful grandchildren, Allison, Sam, Isabelle, Jack, and Alister, one great-grandson, Javi, and one brother, Mark Charles Bristol of Taylors, South Carolina.
He will be remembered most for his humor, generosity, and the love he gave freely to those fortunate enough to know him.
A Celebration of Life and visitation will be held at 2:00PM, Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Clary-Glenn Freeport Chapel Funeral Home; 150 East Highway 20, Freeport, Florida 32459.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Little Sisters of the Poor at 1655 McGill Avenue, Mobile, Alabama 36604.
