Steve Autrey passed away May 28, 2023, age 67. He was born May 2nd, 1956 to Noma E. [Ayers] and Burman Coy Autrey in Shawnee, OK. He attended Will Rogers Elementary then Shawnee Public High School, graduating in 1974.
Steve was a superior high school athlete, starting as a defensive back his sophomore and junior years, and then fullback his senior year on the undefeated state championship team in 1973, scoring three touchdowns in the 41-14 victory over Miami. He also was a member of the track team.
After high school Steve volunteered for the U.S. Army, but a previously undiagnosed hearing loss disqualified him from enlisting.
Steve worked many years at Wolverine Tubing, then for BnB Construction, and then spent several years as a statewide legal process server. He lived his entire life in Shawnee.
During the time working for Wolverine, he attended Seminole State College and earned an Associates degree. He enjoyed board games and was particularly skillful at games of strategy. Steve was an avid outdoorsman, harvesting approximately 60 white-tail deer over his lifetime via rifle, archery, and blackpowder methods.
Although married twice, Steve never had any children. In later life, he tended to think and treat his canine friends as his “kids”.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents and older brother “Ronnie” Autrey, his first cousin and lifelong friend Mark Autrey, and also his furry kids “Stormy,” “Lacey,” “Callie,” and “Molly.”
He is survived by his sister Sharon Autrey and brother Robby [and Shelley] Autrey, nephew Joe Freeman all of Shawnee; beloved niece Angela [and Todd] Helms of Anchorage, AK, and other relatives and friends.
Special thanks and tribute goes to Steve’s longterm dear friend Ms. Sherri Reed, who through great personal effort and self-sacrifice was able to keep Steve in his own home most of the last few years while his health was in decline. Steve had a fiery spirit but could also demonstrate compassion and care to others in need.
Per his wishes Steve is to be cremated and no formal commemorative ceremony is planned. The family suggests that, instead of flowers or cards, Steve would best be remembered by making a small contribution to a local charitable organization dedicated to animal care and welfare, like S.P.A.R.
