Stephen Polston, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and friend, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 14, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, cherished memories, and a family who will miss him more than words can express.

Stephen was born on September 2, 1947, in New Castle, Indiana, to Claude and Martha Polston. He proudly served his country in the United States military, including service in the United States Navy and Marine Corps. He served honorably and attained the rank of Petty Officer First Class.

Following his military service, Stephen continued to build a life defined by hard work and dedication. He worked as a journeyman at the Los Angeles Times for many years before retiring.

Of all Stephen’s accomplishments, his greatest legacy was the love he had for his family. He was the devoted husband of Pamela Polston and the proud father of his daughters, Tonja, Tina, and Terri. He was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and had the special joy of living to meet some of his great-great-grandchildren, allowing him to witness yet another generation of the family he loved so dearly.

Anyone who knew Stephen knew there was truly no one else quite like him. He was funny, stubborn, strong-willed, and completely unforgettable. He had a personality that could fill a room and a way of making people laugh that his family will treasure forever. And if you knew Stephen, chances are you heard him rapping “Colors” at least once. It is those little moments—the laughter, the stories, and the things that were uniquely Stephen—that will become some of the family’s most treasured memories.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Martha Polston; four brothers; and two sisters. His family finds comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with the loved ones who went before him and is now resting in the presence of the Lord.

Although hearts are heavy, the family’s faith brings comfort in knowing that death is not the end for those who belong to Christ. They hold close the promise of Scripture:

“To be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.”— 2 Corinthians 5:8

Stephen’s family will miss his laughter, his stories, his stubbornness, his voice, and all the little things that made him who he was. They will miss being able to call him, hug him, and hear him laugh, but his presence will live on through every story told, every memory shared, and every generation of the family he loved.

May Stephen be looking down from Heaven with that familiar smile, laughing and watching over the family who loved him so deeply. May he know just how much he was loved, how greatly he will be missed, and how firmly his memory will remain in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Until the day they are together again, his family will hold onto their faith, hold onto one another, and hold tightly to the beautiful memories he gave them.

Rest peacefully, Stephen. Your earthly journey is complete, but your place in the hearts of those who love you will remain forever. Keep rapping “Colors” up there. You are loved. You are missed.

Service to be announced at a later date.