Stephen Frederick Kirton

Stephen Frederick Kirton, 66, passed away suddenly on Sunday, May 2, 2021.

A resident of Jesup for the past four years and former resident of Durham, North Carolina, Stephen was born on April 4, 1955 in Jamaica, Queens, New York to the late Richard and Edith Hayes Kirton.  After graduation, Stephen served his country in the United States Marine Corps for over six years where he worked mostly as a Chef.  He sought higher education; first as an Architect but his love of cooking and serving others led him to pursue his degree in culinary arts. He worked at numerous fine dining establishments over his career as a chef including one of his final jobs at the University in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.  In his spare time, Stephen enjoyed photography, collecting swords, making bird houses and taking in the beauty of nature.  In addition to his parents, his wife, Terry Lee Kirton, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his siblings, Ethel Stepney of Florida, Richard Kirton and wife, June of Atlanta, Georgia, Debra Wilson of Tampa, Florida, Naomi Billups and husband, Larry of Odum, Georgia and Joseph Johnson and wife, Lorraine of Odum, Georgia and beloved canine companion, Mama.  A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members also survive.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at Howard & Jones Funeral Home in Jesup, Georgia.

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