II Timothy 4:7, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous Judge will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."

Stephen James Stump was born on September 26, 1942 to George Clinton and Jean Mae (Lehman) Stump in Goshen, Indiana. Steve was married on August 31, 1963 to his beautiful bride, Carol (Keller) Stump. Married for almost 60 years, the love that they shared and faithfulness to one another served as a firm foundation for their family.

Steve is survived by his wife, Carol, Daughters Rene' (Ron) Merrill and Elizabeth (Rob) Schumacher. He was also blessed by 5 grandchildren Harrison, Ashley, Kaitlyn, Gabriel and Benjamin. His sisters, Carol (Gene) Roberts, Phylliss Eakle and Debbie Rice.

In his early years, Brenneman Memorial Missionary Church was his church home. He had fond memories of the Stump reunions that took place which were full of music, food, and laughter. He would tell stories of his dad and uncles singing in a quartet, and the lively music sung by all. When he was in high school, He was introduced to Jesus and made Him the Savior of his life. It was through his involvement in Youth For Christ where he began singing in the choir as a tenor. Along with singing, he thoroughly enjoyed playing basketball and hunting with his father. In the Spring of 1960 he graduated from Goshen High School.

He felt the Lord calling him to become a pastor and told his dad he wanted to go to Bethel College in Mishawaka, Indiana where he majored in Christian Ministries. It was at Bethel where he met many of his lifelong friends. He got more involved with singing and joined the choir and other musical groups. He had the opportunity to go on a European Tour with Youth For Christ as a sophomore in College. Bethel College is also where he met his beloved wife, Carol, who became his lifelong duet partner. The famous Gospel Four Quartet was formed and continued to sing even after college graduation for decades. In fact, after all four men had families, they decided to tour with their wives and children at family camps in various states. We will never forget the adventure to Florida where 16 quartet family members fit in 2 station wagons!

Steve's first ministry as Pastor was at St. Mark's Missionary Church while he was a Senior in College. After 2 years Steve felt called to pursue his Master's of Divinity at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. While pursuing his degree, he and Carol became Directors of the Cleveland Home for Girls in Versailles, Kentucky. He and Carol cared for young girls from troubled homes and helped to bring love, stability and guidance to their lives. The impact of their love has extended through the years. Some of the girls still stay in touch with them today. He graduated from seminary in 1970, and continued his work at the Cleveland Home. He was recognized for this service to the community by the State of Kentucky and was issued the honor of being a Kentucky Colonel.

Steve and Carol felt called in September, 1974 to move their family to Farmington Hills, Michigan where he pastored at Forest Hills Missionary Church. In 1978, the church moved to family homes and the tight knit group of believers worshipped and fellowshipped together for one year. In 1980, the group merged with Calvary Missionary Church in Livonia, Michigan.

In 1982, Steve transitioned from Pastor to Counselor and worked at the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries where he directed the Christian Guidance Center for 8 years. This was a program designed for pre released prisoners to assimilate back into society. During this time, he helped the church in New Hudson, Allen Road and Walled Lake.

In 1990, Steve was called back to minister at Calvary Missionary Church where he served for 14 years as Senior Pastor until he resigned in 2004. He left a legacy of serving and performing many marriages, baby dedications, baptisms, hospital visits, home visitations, and funerals.

After his resignation, he enjoyed being "Papa" to his grandchildren. His godly influence and love made a huge impact on each of their lives.

During his "retirement" he often helped fill the pulpits for several years at churches in Hart, Bliss, Walled Lake and Calvary churches.

Steve will be remembered forever in our hearts. He was a family man, caring Shepherd, godly Counselor and loyal Christ follower.

The Stump family will receive guests on Monday, May 15th, from 2-8 pm, at the funeral home.

A funeral service is planned for Tuesday, May 16th, 11 am (gathering beginning at 10 am) at Cornerstone Baptist Church of Livonia, 29850 Six Mile Rd. (West of Middlebelt) Livonia.

Interment will take place at White Chapel Cemetery in Troy.

Please keep the Stump family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.