Stephen Charles Dunn of Fernandina Beach passed away at his home suddenly on October 29th, 2017.

He was born in San Diego, California, lived many years of his childhood in Subic Bay, Philippines, and upon his father�s retirement, settled in his father�s hometown here in Fernandina Beach in 1970. He received his associate�s degree in Marine Biology/Chemistry at Key West Community College.

After returning home to Fernandina, Stephen worked at Rayonier for many years. He was a well experienced scuba diver helping local fishermen, as well as being a very knowledgeable fishermen himself and a great sailor of the ocean.

Stephen was a loving Son, Husband, Brother, Uncle and a best friend with a big generous heart and a gentle soul. He had a profound love and passion and felt closest to God outdoors, and on, in or near the ocean. He was skilled at the BBQ grill. His smoked meats and fish were mouthwatering every time. Among all of these he was also passionate knife collector.

He is survived by his two sisters: Patricia Ryals and Susan Dunn. Three nieces: Sara Willin, Jaime Kummer, and Jessica Ryals, and an Aunt: Ruth Burkett. He leaves four cousins: Shirley Thornton, Bobby Thornton, Patty Thirsk, and Peggy Davis. He was preceded in death by his parents Stephen Dunn and Beverly Blanche Schwarting Dunn, his wife Laura Dunn, and Life partner Eulalia Brown, numerous nieces and nephews and a huge gaggle of close friends.

There was a Life Celebration in honor of Steve on Sunday, November 12th at 2 pm at the Kraft Athletic Club Shelter 961023 Buccaneer Trail, Fernandina Beach Fl. 32034

I remember the ebb and flow of the ocean. Your smile and the warm kissed love in your embrace. Your exuberance for life was only surpassed by the joy you brought to those who shared in your company. When I look back on my childhood your face emerges from the sand and is carved in the shells I find among the lines in the waves. You were a true friend to all who knew you, a brother, husband, Uncle and son. I will miss every word we will never get to speak, every hug we will never get to share, and through the years when I visit the sea, your face will always be shining upon the horizon.

A poem by: Jessica Hope Ryals