Stephen L. Grizzard, born April 18, 1958, in Ocala, Florida, passed away surrounded by family who loved and admired him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his father, Herman “Red” Grizzard, and his brother, Scott Grizzard.

Stephen is survived by his sons, Jacob Grizzard (Melanie) and Lucas Grizzard; his cherished grandchildren, Emmett, Sawyer, and Walker Grizzard; his mother, Jane Blair Grizzard; his sister, Pam Eubanks (Rick); nephew Lanier Eubanks (Callie); great-nephew Wells Eubanks; and great-niece Ollie Jane Eubanks.

Stephen was raised on Norris Cattle Company, where his lifelong love for the outdoors and appreciation for wildlife first took root. Those early years shaped his deep respect for nature and carried through all stages of his life.

He was a proud graduate of the University of Central Florida, earning his Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with honors. He later completed the Certified Public Manager program at Florida State University in 1999, reflecting his commitment to leadership and public service.

Stephen devoted more than 31 years of distinguished service to the Florida Department of Corrections. He began his career as a Vocational Instructor at Lowell Correctional Institution and went on to serve in numerous roles at Institutional, Regional, and Central Office levels. Over the course of his career, he played a key role in facility maintenance, construction, and operations throughout the state.

Stephen served as Assistant Bureau Chief and Bureau Chief of Facility Services, and ultimately retired as the Assistant Director of the Division of Facilities Management and Building Construction. Throughout his career, Stephen was known for his integrity, steady leadership, and deep commitment to public service. His colleagues respected him for his expertise, work ethic, and willingness to mentor others.

Outside of his professional life, Stephen was an avid reader with a passion for historical texts, particularly those focused on the Civil War era. In later years, he developed a love of photography and found great joy traveling throughout the American West, visiting National Parks in Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana. A devoted University of Georgia Bulldogs fan, Stephen proudly passed this passion on to his sons and grandsons.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:

The Vine Community Church PO Box 2884 Ocala, FL 34478

or

Hospice of Marion County PO Box 4860 Ocala, FL 34478-4860