Steven Allen Herriott, 74, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025, after a year-long battle with cancer, with his family by his side. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Born in Canton, Illinois, on July 3, 1950, to Jim and Helen Herriott, Steve spent parts of his childhood in Alamo, California, and Seattle, Washington, before moving to Huntsville, Alabama, in 1963, which he proudly called home for the remainder of his life. He graduated from Huntsville High School in 1968 and went on to earn a business degree from Jacksonville State University.
A lifelong lover of sports, Steve’s natural athleticism was evident from a young age. He excelled in basketball and baseball during his high school years, proudly earning a spot on the Huntsville All-City basketball team. He also had a deep passion for ice hockey and figure skating, making significant contributions to the local sports community through his work at the Ice Palace alongside his father and brothers. In later years, Steve ran his own paint contracting business, where he built lasting relationships with loyal customers and earned their respect and admiration.
In addition to his many professional and athletic accomplishments, Steve was a passionate supporter of the Huntsville Stars and could often be found at games with his family. His nameplate adorned his season ticket seat, a testament to his unwavering dedication to the team. Steve and his wife, Emily, were also known for hosting memorable pool parties and holiday gatherings at their home, where their sport pool became a hub for family and friends to enjoy water volleyball and create lasting memories.
Steve is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Emily Kinzer Herriott; his son, Steven Herriott II (Victoria); his daughter, Virginia Stefo (Justin); and his adoring grandchildren, Brooke, Kate, Caleb, Hope, Olivia, and Georgia. He is also survived by his brothers, Jim Herriott (Jeannie) and David Herriott (Katie), along with a host of additional family members and dear friends who cherished him deeply.
Steve is now at peace, continuing to bring joy to those around him with his signature wit and humor. His senior quote, “Happy-go-lucky, lively and fun; he’s really liked by everyone,” was a true reflection of his spirit. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Helen Herriott, and his brother, Mike Herriott.
A funeral service to celebrate Steve’s life will be held on January 11, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Rivertree Church Downtown Campus with Pastor Steven Dunne officiating. A reception will follow at the home of Justin and Virginia Stefo.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Steve’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a charity of your choice.
In true Steve fashion, the family invites all who attend the service to wear jeans or casual clothes—because that’s what Steve would have wanted. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
