Stephen Preston Roney, a respected leader at Howard Industries and a devoted husband, father and grandfather, passed away on September 8, 2026, at the age of 58. His death has brought sorrow to family members, friends, coworkers and the Laurel, Mississippi, community where he spent much of his life.
Born on May 26, 1968, Stephen built a life centered on faith, family and dedication. From his years as a student-athlete to his 37-year career at Howard Industries, he was known for his strong work ethic, loyalty and willingness to treat others with kindness and patience.
His family remembers a man who loved traveling, music, humor and spending time with the people closest to him. Above all, Stephen’s faith remained a defining part of his life, particularly during the challenges he faced following his diagnosis.
From Laurel Athletics to Jones College
Stephen was raised in Laurel, Mississippi, where he attended West Jones High School and played football and baseball. His interest in athletics continued after graduation when he enrolled at Jones College.
At Jones College, he walked onto the football team and earned a starting position as fullback. His achievement reflected the determination and work ethic that would continue to characterize his life and career.
College also became an important part of his personal story. It was there that he met Connie, the woman who would become his wife and lifelong partner.
The couple married in 1990 and began building a family together. Their son, Tyler, was born in 1993, followed by their daughter, Payton, in 1996. Stephen later welcomed the joys of becoming a father-in-law and grandfather, roles he treasured deeply.
Thirty-Seven Years of Dedication at Howard Industries
Stephen began his career at Howard Industries, Inc. in 1989 after earning an Electrical Certificate from Jones College. He started as an electrician and went on to build a 37-year career with the company.
Over the decades, he became a respected leader known for his loyalty, honesty, kindness and patience. His strong work ethic and dedication earned him the respect of those who worked alongside him.
His professional life reflected the same values that shaped his relationships outside the workplace. He was remembered as someone who approached his responsibilities with integrity and treated others with genuine care.
The supplied information does not identify his final job title or provide a complete account of his career progression. His long service and leadership at Howard Industries remain central to the professional legacy described by his family.
Stephen Preston Roney Bio and Death Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stephen Preston Roney |
| Date of Birth | May 26, 1968 |
| Date of Death | September 8, 2026 |
| Age at Death | 58 years old |
| Hometown | Laurel, Mississippi |
| Education | West Jones High School; Jones College |
| College Athletics | Football fullback at Jones College |
| Occupation | Electrician and leader at Howard Industries, Inc. |
| Career | Began in 1989; 37 years of service |
| Wife | Connie Roney |
| Marriage | 1990 |
| Children | Tyler Roney and Payton Hodo |
| Grandchild | Preston |
| Mother | Sue Roney |
| Father | Preston Roney, deceased |
| Sisters | Twila Walters and Susan Wolgamott |
| Faith | Christian |
| Specific Medical Cause of Death | Not disclosed |
| Funeral Arrangements | No confirmed details provided |
A Life Filled With Family, Travel and Laughter
Away from work, Stephen enjoyed spending time with Connie and their family. Traveling together was one of the ways they created lasting memories, and he particularly enjoyed visiting national parks and taking sunset cruises.
Music and humor were also important parts of his personality. His family remembers the joy he brought into their lives and the laughter that accompanied their time together.
Stephen also enjoyed competing in the Little Black Creek Halloween campsite competition. He won the competition twice, an accomplishment that reflected his enthusiasm for family activities and his willingness to embrace a little friendly competition.
As his children grew older, he welcomed their spouses into the family and embraced the role of grandfather to Preston. His family described that role as one he treasured deeply.
Faith Through Life’s Most Difficult Moments
Faith remained the foundation of Stephen’s life, particularly following his diagnosis.
His family shared that he continued to trust in God and openly spoke about his belief in Jesus Christ’s saving grace, even during his final days. His faith provided a source of strength and remained an important part of the example he set for those around him.
The supplied information does not identify the diagnosis or provide a specific medical cause of death. While his family’s account describes the importance of faith during his illness, no further medical conclusions should be drawn without confirmation.
For those who knew him, Stephen’s faith was closely connected to the way he lived. His kindness, patience and devotion to family reflected the values he held throughout his life.
Family Members Surviving Stephen Roney
Stephen is survived by his wife, Connie, whom he married in 1990. Their marriage of 36 years was an important part of the life and family they built together.
He is also survived by his son, Tyler Roney, and Tyler’s wife, Anneliese; his daughter, Payton Hodo, and her husband, David; and his grandson, Preston.
Additional survivors include his mother, Sue Roney; his sisters, Twila Walters and her husband, Robbie, and Susan Wolgamott and her husband, Neil; along with numerous other relatives and friends.
Stephen was preceded in death by his father, Preston Roney.
His family relationships were central to his life, and the love he shared with his wife, children, grandson and extended family will remain an important part of how he is remembered.
Funeral Arrangements and Community Remembrance
No confirmed funeral, visitation, burial or memorial arrangements for Stephen Preston Roney were included in the supplied information.
His family or an authorized funeral service provider may announce arrangements when they are ready to share them. Those wishing to pay their respects should rely on confirmed family announcements for service details.
Stephen’s passing is a significant loss to those who knew him through his family, his work at Howard Industries, his church community and his many friendships.
His loved ones are remembering a man whose joyful spirit, dedication and unwavering faith made a lasting impression on the people around him.
Remembering Stephen Preston Roney’s Legacy
Stephen Preston Roney leaves behind a legacy built through decades of hard work, devotion to family and a faith that remained strong during difficult times.
His 37 years at Howard Industries reflected his commitment and leadership, while his life outside work was filled with the people and experiences he loved most. From family travels and national park visits to Halloween campsite competitions and time with his grandson, Stephen embraced the moments that brought his loved ones together.
He will be remembered for his honesty, kindness, patience and the joy he brought into the lives of others. His family and friends will continue to cherish the memories they shared with him and the example he set through his life.
Our deepest condolences go to Connie, Tyler, Payton, Preston, Sue, Twila, Susan and all of Stephen’s relatives, friends and coworkers. May they find strength and comfort in their faith, in one another and in the many memories they shared with him.
Disclaimer
This obituary is based on the supplied information concerning Stephen Preston Roney, who passed away on September 8, 2026, at the age of 58. His family has referenced a diagnosis, but the specific medical condition and official cause of death have not been disclosed in the information provided. Funeral arrangements and any additional biographical details should be confirmed through his family or an authorized funeral service provider. This article is intended for general informational and memorial purposes and should not be treated as a substitute for an official obituary, medical report or family announcement.