12/30/2010
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin issued a proclamation ordering all U.S. and state flags displayed at state facilities be lowered to half-staff the entire day of Friday, Dec. 31, in memory of Stephan Charles Stearns.
Stearns enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2008 and achieved the rank of specialist. Stearns served on active duty at Fort Bragg, N.C. as a member of the 27th Engineer Battalion, 618th Engineer Support Company. Stearns died an unexpected and natural death while visiting his family in Point Pleasant, W.Va. for the holidays.
“Specialist Stearns’ commitment and dedication to serving his country brings honor to his family, the citizens of W.Va., and his country. We mourn the tragic death of this young soldier,” said Gov. Tomblin.
Stearns is survived by his wife, Rachel Stearns, a daughter, Kylie McKenna Faith Wilmoth, a daughter, Christin Cheyenne Stearns, his parents, Richard and Janet Parsons, his father, Charles Stearns, his sister, Susan Caroll Thomas, his sister, Staci Caye Grimm, his brother, Richard Parsons, Jr., his brother Garrett Stearns, and his extended family.
Contact Information
Jacqueline Proctor
304-558-2000