Steve Gifford

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” 2 Timothy 4:7

On Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020, Steve Gifford passed away at the age of 51 after a long courageous battle with cancer. Steve was born in Blytheville. Mr. Steve attended Armorel Schools through his youth, where he developed a love for basketball at a young age. After playing at the high school level, Steve went on to play college basketball at Christian Brothers University and the University of Central Arkansas. His love for the game didn’t stop after college. He became coach Gifford to different men’s and women’s basketball teams for many years. Steve was an avid hunter, fisherman, and enjoyed being on the lake with his friends and family. As he got older, the deer woods and the lake became his peace. Steve was a friend to all and he never met a stranger. He had an infectious smile and a contagious laugh and made lite of every situation. Steve had a way of making everyone around him feel loved and he always made sure everything was okay. Steve lived an amazing life lead by Christ where he touched the lives of everyone he met and truly made a difference.

Steve is survived by his loving mother, Lola Gifford Bowen, and his stepfather, Ray Bowen, of Manila; his father, Jim Gifford, of Blytheville; his two children, Emily Ryan Gifford and Steven Chase Gifford of Branson, Mo.; the love of his life and best friend, Julie Murray of Springfield, Mo. He also leaves his two brothers, Jim Gifford of Armorel and Scott Gifford of Jonesboro; his three nieces, Meg Gifford, Alexis Gifford and Ally Jewell; his two nephews, Miles Gifford and Brody Cash Gifford.

Memorial services for Steve will be held Thursday, Nov. 5, at 10 a.m. at Armorel Baptist Church with Rev. Danny Pankey and Rev. John Wofford officiating. The family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until service time at Armorel Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to your local Relay for Life in Steve's honor. Following the State of Arkansas COVID-19 guidelines, there will be no more than 100 people allowed in the church. Masks are required to enter the building and they MUST be worn at ALL times. Social distancing will be strictly enforced. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.cobbfuneralhome.com.