Stephen P. Mathews, 41, of Tarpon Springs, Florida, passed away on January 8th, 2026.  He is survived by his wife Nicole Mathews; son Deklan; daughter Finley; father Patrick F. Mathews; mother Sharon; brothers Gregory (Charlotte) and Brendan (Blakeley); sister Bridget; father-in-law James Gasparino and mother-in-law Christina; brother-in-law Michael (Kristen) Gasparino; multiple nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

A service in celebration of Stephen’s life will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 11 a.m at First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg. The church is located at 1900 Gandy Blvd N, Saint Petersburg, FL 33702.

Stephen grew up in Sturbridge Massachusetts, where he developed a lifelong love of baseball, competition and community. He attended St. Johns High School in Shrewsbury Massachusetts where he was an accomplished student-athlete and standout left-handed pitcher, helping lead his team to Division I state title in 2002. His dedication and on-field talent earned him a scholarship to Eckerd College in St. Petersburg Florida where he played collegiate baseball for all four years, graduating with a degree in sociology with a minor in criminology. His interest in criminology led to his attending the St Petersburg Police Academy, graduating in 2007. He began serving a distinguished eighteen-year career on the police force rising to leadership positions as Detective Sergeant in several squads within the organization earning the respect of his fellow officers and supervisors. In recognition of his courage and commitment to protecting others, he was also the recipient of a Life Saving Award, an honor reflecting his selflessness and dedication to duty.

In his off time, he enjoyed spending time with his wife of 14 years, Nicole and their two children. He loved baseball, including coaching his son’s baseball team, fishing, golf, and landscaping.  He loved vacations with the family. Their most recent trip was to the Midwest to visit four ballparks.

Stephen will be remembered as a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend – a man whose life was marked by dedication, loyalty, humor, and an unwavering love for his family. He will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a fund set up in Stephen’s honor to support St. Petersburg Police Department law enforcement officers who would benefit from non-insured mental health support and services. This can be done at https://www.suncoastpba.com/donate and typing Mathews Family in the comment section.

Streaming link for service :

https://www.youtube.com/live/SgMmK_yTp8o