Service
Stephen Lee McCall, a Vietnam War veteran and longtime resident of Lake James, passed away on September 7, 2023. Known as Steve to many, he was born June 6, 1949, into a family of Clarence McCall and Ellie (Puett) McCall. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. As a Corporal, Steve saw combat in Vietnam and earned several honor medals. In his letters home, he described his time there, the antics of his fellow soldiers, the local scenery, and very edited descriptions of the action.
During his service in the Marine Corps, Steve was awarded several decorations, including the Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Stars, the Combat Action Ribbon, and a double Purple Heart. He displayed heroics in combat when he pulled several soldiers to safety despite being wounded himself. Steve did not speak often of his time in the Marines, yet he proudly assisted his fellow veterans and was active in the VFW, serving as Post Commander.
Upon returning home from the war, Steve worked for Bahnson Service Company in Winston-Salem, NC for 29 years, then retired from the U.S. Postal Service 22 years later. During his postal route, he met and fell in love with Joan Lane Roy. After several years together, they married on August 31, 2002. Joan and Steve loved animals, especially African Grey parrots, traveling, and watching old Western films together.
Steve was preceded in death by his wife, Joan, and his parents, Clarence and Ellie McCall.
He is survived by his sisters Diane (James) Ferguson and Connie McCall, godson John-Elam Foust, and stepdaughter Amy Poovey. Steve, a beloved uncle and cousin to many, he was devoted to his family.
The family will receive friends at from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The graveside service will follow at 3 p.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Dana McKim officiating. Military honors will be performed by the U.S. Marine Corps.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to local VFW Post 5362 at 529 Hopewell Road, Morganton, NC 28655.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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We are so sorry to hear of Steve's passing. Prayers and Condolences to the family.
Sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. Prayers and condolences to the family. Class member 1967
I am so saddened to hear of Steve's passing. He and I were fellow classmates in the Morganton High School Class of 1967. We had a great class and Steve was a huge part of that experience as well as later in life. He will always be Mudhole to us MHS folks. Steve was one of the very nicest people that I have known these many years. He was a war hero but got the raw end of the Agent Orange mess. We thank him for his service and for his influence on our lives. I am sending special thoughts to all of his family, especially to sister Connie and to Deidra (we just met Saturday).
Steve was a treasured friend sorry to hear about his passing. I noticed that there was no mention of him being founder and president of the NATE club in the third or fourth grade at Central school. I was a proud member 😊. Rest in peace my friend.
Praying for Steve’s family, that they are able to come together with love and help one another as they journey through this difficult time. I love you all and hate that this has happened. Love Brittany.
Praying for all of Steve’s family. To remember all the good and find peace with each other to come together and help one another in this difficult time. Love Brittany.
Thank you for all the Good times!!! We love you, will miss you always! Until we meet again...
Thank you for all the Good times!!! We love you, will miss you always! Until we meet again...
Steve and I were best of friends. He was more like a brother to me than a friend. Growing up together we had a lot of good times together. And as the years went by, when we got together we laughed and shared those memories. Steve will always remain in my heart. I loved him like a brother. Keith Miller