Stephen Alan Yarber, of New Port Richey, Florida passed away on March 4, 2022, after a long battle with kidney disease.
Born October 17, 1949, to Paul J. Yarber and Ann K. Yarber (Kruse) in Charleston, South Carolina, Stephen began his life as a “Navy brat.” He is survived by his brothers Michael (Karen) and Paul (Susan) Yarber and preceded in death by his sister, Kathy Quinn.
After graduating from Norland High School in Miami, Florida, Steve joined the U.S. Army and spent two tours in Vietnam. One of his fondest memories during the war was running boats on various waterways throughout Vietnam. Upon returning from the war, he met his future wife, Mary Patricia Harmon Yarber, whom he married on May 26, 1972, at the Dolphin Project in Key Biscayne, Florida.
Steve returned to the military and served 20 years in the U.S. Army retiring as a Master Sergeant. The Yarber Family spent most military time travelling and making a new home every several years. Steve had a passion for sports and played football, basketball, softball, and golf. He was also a certified scuba diver. Steve extended his love of sports to his children…coaching Jennifer in softball and Matthew in soccer. However, everyone knows his “first love” was the Miami Dolphins. He bragged about buying halftime tickets as a teenager for 50 cents and waited every year for 1972 (the perfect season) to return.
After retirement from the U.S. Army, he returned to school and earned a bachelor’s degree of Arts in History at the University of South Florida. Upon graduation Steve rejoined the workforce as a Financial Counselor for Veterans at Pasco Hernando State College pursuing his lifelong dream of helping others. Once he retired again Steve began to study the art of Bonsai. Ever the strategist he was an avid chess and Bridge player. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.
Steve is survived by his wife, Mary Pat Yarber; daughter, Jennifer (Tony) Sorenson; Matthew’s son, Deacon Yarber. Preceded in death by son, Matthew Yarber.
The memorial service for Stephen Alan Yarber will be on Sunday, March 27 at 1 pm at Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home at 6616 Congress Street, New Port Richey, Florida 34653. A Celebration of Life will follow.
Barbara M. Marley
March 13, 2022, 10:57 pm
My deepest sympathies Jennifer to you and your family. Your father’s life sounds as wonderful and exciting as you are. A legacy to be cherished. May he rest in eternal peace.
Regenia Dixon
March 13, 2022, 11:02 pm
Jennifer and Family,
It is never easy when you lose a loved one. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Rhonda Dunlap Kauffroath
March 14, 2022, 12:10 am
Heaven has gained a wonderful angel. Steven was well respected by everyone he came in contact with. He will, forever, be protecting and guiding Pat and Jennifer as they navigate through their lives without his presence. He left a mark on our family and my daughters still talk about him. All my love and prayers to your family, Pat and Jennifer. We will miss him.
Vonnie Maytum
March 14, 2022, 12:33 am
Dear Pat and family, please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of Steve. Dear friends surround you, let them be there for you. Hugs, Vonnie Maytum
Tammy LaVora
March 14, 2022, 12:35 am
Jennifer,Tony and family sending our deepest sympathies on the passing of your father fathers are such a wonderful gift from the Lord we pray for you in your time of grieving and may God bless your entire family. Love Mike and Tammy LaVora ♥️
Carroll Quinn
March 14, 2022, 12:42 am
Many prayers and condolences to the entire Yarborough family. You all are in my thoughts.
Carla MacDonald
March 14, 2022, 7:12 pm
It is with tears and sorrow I say goodbye to my Dear friend Steve. Knowing him for over 40 years he has been a sweet friend in my life always a counselor and a comfort. Most of all I remember his smile and jokes and the way we used kibitz! He will be missed!