Stephen Edward Maguffee

Stephen Edward Maguffee, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away on April 25, 2025, at the age of 70. Born on January 3, 1955, Steve lived a life filled with stories, sharp wit, and a deep—sometimes complicated—love for those around him.

He is survived by his children: Craig Maguffee-Smith (Rebekah), Meghan Thorne (Craig), Dustin Maguffee (Ciera), and Tyler Maguffee (Daisy); his beloved grandchildren: Kamden Smith, Elouise Thorne, Stella Thorne, Omie Maguffee, and Lovy Maguffee; and his siblings Kathy Phillips and Bob Gregory (Wanda).

He also leaves behind his nieces: Ronda Nakoa, Ginger Buck, Anita Durham, and Tammy Hussung — who became his lifeline in his later years, offering unwavering care, support, and love when he needed it most.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Stella Martin Thomas and J.N. Maguffee; his sister Judy King; brothers-in-law Carl King and Joe Phillips; and nephew Greg King.

For many years, Steve worked for Burlington Northern Railroad — a job that brought him pride, purpose, and plenty of tales to tell. In his youth, he loved two things above all: basketball and women. He probably broke even on the basketball bets — and as for the women, well… let’s just say there were more former wives than could reasonably be listed here.

A die-hard Arkansas Razorbacks fan, Steve could talk Hogs football and basketball for hours. If you ever saw a man in bright red cowboy boots, with a twinkle in his eye and a sly joke on his lips — that was probably Steve.

Behind the charm, though, was a man who fought a quiet and long battle with severe depression. When he was good, he was great — magnetic, funny, deeply affectionate. His struggles, however, often created distance and pain, both for himself and for those he loved. Yet through it all, his heart never stopped holding space for his family.

Steve was a complicated man — but he was ours. We’ll remember the laughter, the Razorback games, the red boots, and the endless stories. And we’ll carry the love he gave us in our hearts, always.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mental Health America (mhanational.org) or Lucile Packard Children's Hospital (supportLPCH.org), in honor of Steve’s memory and in support of causes close to his heart.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Monday, June 9, 2025, at Old Main in Salem, Arkansas.