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.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Stephen Lee McCall.
The world will be a little colder place without you Steve McCall.
I lost my Cuz and in my Heart I Lost my Brother , My Dearest Friend, Also A man that Loved his Country and Family... Home of the Free. . Because of the Brave.
I remember Steve well during our school years prayers for his family
Steve was one of the finest and generous man one could ever meet. He was a great friend. Time spent at his house at the lake are memorable. On July the 4th, he displayed his patriotism and love for our country by having a flag raising ceremony. Surrounded by fellow veterans and friends, the event was solemn and all displayed respectfulness. Although I hadn’t seen Steve very much in the last several years, I will always cherish our friendship. We lost one of the best. Condolences to family snd friends. Donald Carroll.
You were my daddy and you filled those shoes well. Physically mentally spiritually financially you nailed it! I will forever hold you dear for that during my adolescent years. Til we meet again Love you forever❤️
Thank you for your service young man, God bless you and yours and may you rest in peace. God's speed Marine !