Merlene Ann Stepp

Merlene Ann Stepp passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the age of 83 in her home in Winter Haven, Florida. She faced a long battle with multiple health issues with remarkable grace, strength, and perseverance that often surpassed what her doctors believed possible. In her final moments, while listening to “The Old Rugged Cross” and holding her daughter’s hand, she offered one last smile before peacefully departing to embrace the lion she had so often spoken of meeting in Heaven.

She is survived by her daughter, Michelle (Stepp) Kuester, her son, Gary Stepp, five grandchildren—Shaun, Amanda (Alex), Douglas (Katie), Cassandra, and Christopher—and thirteen great-grandchildren: Noah, Jason, Stella, Austin, Madi, Azilyn, Ellie, Asher, Landon, Leo, Everly, Xander, and Brayleigh.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations made to Philadelphia Church in Merlene’s name.