Stephen Houston McCormick, Jr.

Stephen Houston McCormick Jr., age 61, entered this world on September 5, 1964, the beloved son of Houston and Salina Griffin McCormick, and left it surrounded by family on November 13, 2025.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Vickie Valdez-McCormick; his daughter, Lisa Marie Brown; grandchildren, Taylor Elise, Richard Lee Jr., and Gresun Dane; his mother, Salina Ditch; brother, Stacey (Sonya) McCormick; sister, Whitney (Zach) Rushing; brother, Jason McCormick; niece, Jordan (Blake) Bullard; nephews, Griffin (Patty) McCormick, Wyatt Rushing, Archer Rushing, Aiden McCormick, Isaac McCormick; great-nieces, Evie Mack Bullard and Baker Drew Bullard; great-nephew, Killian Stace McCormick.  Steve had a tremendous love for family that came before everything, and he was deeply loved by countless uncles, aunts, and cousins.  Steve also had great love for all the numerous fellow musicians he collaborated and performed with, and they held and will hold a special place in his heart forever.

He is preceded in death by his father, Houston McCormick; paternal grandparents,John and Effie McCormick; maternal grandparents, Otha and Vina Lou Griffin; and beloved stepfather, Bill Ditch.

Steve spent many years working in the construction industry, doing everything from ironwork to carpentry.  Yet to most who knew him, Steve will be remembered first and foremost as an extraordinary musician.  A self-taught pianist and guitarist, he carried the deep musical roots of his McCormick family.  He also grew up surrounded by the sound of his mother’s voice, often listening to her sing and play guitar both on her own and with her Griffin sisters.  A gifted and prolific songwriter, Steve created a remarkable catalog of original music.  His songs were recorded by other artists, and his work continues to draw interest and admiration to this day.  All who knew him will miss him.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at West Pitman Baptist Church, 1599 Bradley Road, Westville, Florida beginning at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Daniel Smith officiating.  A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Committal services will follow at West Pitman Baptist Church Cemetery. Those asked to serve as pallbearers are as follows: Zeke Griffin, Luke Griffin, Henry Griffin, Jason Scroggins, Jeff Scroggins, and Greg Brownell.

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins of DeFuniak Springs.