Stephen Michael Ladner

Stephen Michael Ladner, 54 of McHenry, passed away at his home Wednesday morning, August 25th. He was born June 13, 1967 at Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, the oldest of three children to Frankie and Dot (Landrum) Ladner. Stephen grew up in Saucier and loved most anything outside, such as hunting, fishing, swimming and playing baseball. Him and his siblings frequently visited the Patton swimhole on Big Biloxi on those hot summer days. Stephen went to work at Morrison's Cafeteria as a teenager and graduated from Harrison Central High School with the Class of 1985. From there, he went to Jitney Jungle and later Walmart, stocking shelves, running a register or whatever he was asked to do. He is lovingly remembered as a laid back, easy-going and quiet person. Stephen had a heart bigger than he was, always wanting to help in any way he could and would give the shirt off his back if you needed it. He loved his family, always making sure his nieces and nephews got a present from him at Christmas, making sure he spent the same amount on all of them. He was a Christian by faith and member at Saucier Landmark Missionary Baptist Church. He was a loving brother that had a special connection with his sister, often confiding in her when he needed someone to talk to. Stephen had a goofy sense of humor and could get a bit moody, but he was always loving in nature. He still loved to fish, but more than that he took pictures. Stephen could see the beauty that others might overlook, often pulling over to take photos of things he thought worth keeping. He also had a game camera and enjoyed leaving food out for deer and other animals that may come up, just so he could get a picture of them too. Stephen was loved beyond measure and will be forever missed by all whose life he touched. He was preceded by his father, Frankie Leo Ladner. Left to cherish his memories are: his loving mother, Dot Ladner, along with his sister Shawne (Jeffery) Smith and brother Shelton "Shed" Ladner (Kelli Sowles), all of McHenry. Though he never married himself, he loved his nieces and nephews: D.J. and Shelby Ladner, Allye (Justin) Davis, with Victoria, Sarah, anna and Grayson "Big Fella" Smith, along with numerous extended family and friends. Stephen wanted to continue helping others even after his passing, desiring for his body to be donated to science. His family is honoring his wishes, but will hold a memorial service for him at a later date. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Ladner family during this difficult time, asking everyone to keep Ms. Dot and the entire family in your thoughts and prayers over the coming days.