It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Stephen Wade Cantrell on December 8th, 2024, at the age of 77. Stephen was born on December 24th, 1946, in Canton, Georgia. Being a Christmas Eve baby, he loved all things Christmas and spending time with his family and friends.

Stephen graduated from Cherokee High School and Southern Technical Institute with a degree in industrial engineering. He worked several years at Western Electric, AT&T, and retired from Bellsouth in the early 90's.

Stephen leaves behind his loving wife of 55 years Carol Cantrell and his only child Karen (Breck) Johnston. He also leaves behind two loving grandchildren Kate and Sam Johnston, his sister Vickie Patterson, and his nephew Jacob Patterson. He was preceded in death by his parents Will and Lois Cantrell and his nephew Justin Patterson. He also leaves behind several in-laws, nieces, and nephews that he loved dearly.

Stephen was a member of East Cobb Baptist church, having worked tirelessly to help start the church in the mid 80's. He was an avid sportsman, having played softball for years on some of the local teams in Cherokee county. One of his proudest accomplishments was founding the Buck Busters Hunting club in Sandersville, Georgia, where he could be found every fall weekend with his best friends. He was also an avid fisherman enjoying many fishing trips with his best friend Jim Dunn. He taught his grandson Sam how to fish, and Sam carries this tradition on to this day. He found his most enjoyment in making people laugh.
Visitation will be Wednesday, December 11th from 11am - 1pm at Darby Funeral Home. The service will follow at 1pm in the chapel of Darby Funeral Home with Dr. David Stroup officiating. Interment will be at Macedonia Memorial Park.

In Lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to East Cobb Baptist Church Building Fund, 1940 Shallowford Road, Marietta, GA. 30067.

The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cantrell family.

The service will be live-streamed:
https://vimeo.com/event/4785034