Stephen "Steve" Robert Croom, Jr., 77, of Currie passed peacefully from his earthly life on Friday, December 6, 2013 at Lower Cape Fear Hospice LifeCare Center.

He was born November 18, 1936 in Wilmington, the son of the late Stephen Robert and Margaret Alice Bulluck Croom.

Stephen is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Gayle Monroe Croom; son, Stephen "Stevie" R. Croom III (Dorene) of Currie; grandson, Stephen R. "Robbie" Croom IV; sister, Mickey C. Stanland of Castle Hayne; brother, Don Croom (Jane) of Wilmington; step-mother, Marie Croom of Wilmington; several nieces and nephews and many beloved friends.

He served his country honorably in the US Air Force. Steve served the Lord and was a member of Wrightsboro Baptist Church. He retired from Occidental Petroleum Corporation and also farmed in the Penderlea community for many years. Steve was a wonderful husband, daddy, granddaddy and brother who took such good care of his family. He enjoyed hunting and fishing in God's beautiful world. His quiet spirit and warm heart will always be remembered.

Graveside funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 8, 2013 at Long Bluff Cemetery, Tram Road, Currie with The Rev. Philip Eakins and The Rev. Parthena Skipper officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

Graveside funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 8, 2013 at Long Bluff Cemetery, Tram Road, Currie with The Rev. Philip Eakins and The Rev. Parthena Skipper officiating.