Steve Naylor

The world has dimmed considerably with the passing of Steve Naylor, 69, of Muncy, following a hard-fought, five-year battle with stage IV cancer.

Born in Bellefonte, on September 5, 1956, Steve was a son of the late Mervyn and Marjorie Ryder.

Steve’s ability to transform commonplace occurrences into true joy was, and always will be, unparalleled. A Cabela’s catalog arriving in the mail became a camping trip or hunting safari (as imagined from the comfort of a couch), movie nights and scary stories included the “extras” for peak ambiance, and a good idea was always received with a hearty “yes, and thenÃ-” to turn the fun up to 11.

The lasting impressions and impact Steve made are too numerous to name; all who knew him shared more laughs, grander stories, and richer experiences thanks to his irreplaceable personality. We will carry his light in our hearts, always.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the hundreds of medical professionals that worked to give us extra years with Steve following his diagnosis–especially the exceptional nursing staff and hospice care teams. Thank you for the gift of time.

Those who know and love Steve experienced his ability to quickly forge genuine connections and the thoughtfulness he brought to every interaction. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 48 years, Kim Naylor; children, Brian (Alli) Naylor and Sarah (John Tomko) Naylor; granddaughters, Aviana, Emma, Clara, and Sophia; sister, Gail (David) Pentz, and many more family and friends.

Besides his parents, Steve is also predeceased by his brother, Reverend Gary Naylor and sister-in-law, Vi Naylor.

In honor of Steve’s lifelong roles as a steadfast friend, charismatic connector, and welcoming host, a celebration of life will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 17 at the Lairdsville Fire Hall. Attendees are asked to keep Steve’s spirit alive by sharing stories that inspire joy and humor, wearing celebratory attire, and (of course) enjoying food and drink together.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McCarty-Thomas Funeral Home, Hughesville.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Steve’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family at mccartythomas.com.