Obituary of Stephen T. Lavery

Stephen T. Lavery, formerly of Easton, PA and Myrtle Beach, SC, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in his Collegeville, PA home on Monday, December 9, 2024.

He was born in Clifden, County Galway, Ireland on April 7, 1937, the son of the late Mark and Anne (O'Connor) Lavery. 

Steve honorably served in the U.S. Army as an Orthopedic Specialist for which he was recognized for his outstanding performance.  He went on to have a distinguished 25 year career as a Supervisor for Roche Vitamins and Fine Chemicals in Belvidere, NJ before retiring to the warmer temperatures of Myrtle Beach, SC.  He never stopped learning. His interests were diverse, but he especially enjoyed the science of nutrition, construction, and mechanical engineering as well as American history. He was an avid sports fan, particularly Notre Dame & University of South Carolina football.  He loved cooking and entertaining. He was most famous for his Thanksgiving meals, Sunday roasts, and country breakfasts.

He was a devoted son, brother, husband, uncle, and father but his favorite role of all was grandpa.   Attending numerous events featuring each of his grandchildren often treating for ice cream afterward no matter the outcome. He was incredibly proud of them and told them often.  He never missed a chance to tell his family how much they were loved.  

Steve lived an exemplary life of service to his family, community, and church. He volunteered his time and talent to his parish, family, and anyone in need; he always made sure everyone around him was taken care of before himself, whether it be family members, friends, neighbors, or church, including fixing the church boiler on a freezing Christmas Eve. He was a member of the the Lions Club and led several charity drives for many years.  He had a joyful disposition and always showed his appreciation to those around him, constantly leaving others happier to have met him.  He was devout in his Catholic faith and lived through quiet example everyday.  He was a proud American and patriot.  He will be deeply missed.                                                                                                                       

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Sandra P. Lavery (née Landon) of Collegeville, PA; son, Mark (Carol Amie) Lavery of Leesburg, VA; daughter, Christine (Judson) Hambleton of Collegeville, PA; brothers  Michael, Mark (Maureen), Patrick (Lana), and John (Bridget); three grandchildren who were the light of his life, Colin, Erin and Tara; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. 

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters Mary and Elizabeth. 

His Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, December 16, 2024 at 11:30 AM from St. Eleanor's RC Church, 647 Locust Street, Collegeville, PA 19426.  Relatives and friends are invited to the visitation on Monday morning from 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM at the Church.

Interment will take place on Tuesday, December 17 at 10:00 AM in Washington Crossing National Cemetery, 830 Highland Road, Newtown, PA 18940.

Steve never cared for black clothing, mourners are encouraged to wear clothing or accents of color much more reflective of Steve’s joyful spirit.  

In lieu of flowers, Steve’s family would appreciate memorial contributions made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by clicking here or performing an act of kindness in Steve's memory. 

Arrangements by Moore, Snear & Ruggiero Funeral Home, 224 West Main Street, Trappe, PA, (610) 489-7900.
www.msrfh.com