of Conway, AR
October 20, 1951 - April 19, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Steven Spades, born on October 20, 1951, in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, to the late Ina Ruth Spades and Richard Judkins Spades. Steven departed this life on April 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering dedication.
He is survived by his siblings: Richard Judkins Spades, Samuel Spades (Becky), and Julie McCarroll (Billy). He also leaves behind his cherished children: Jessica Hankins (Robert), Casey Spades, Julie Counce (Timothy), Steven Spades (Paula), and Sean Spades. Steven was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, friends and other relatives.
A man of honor, Steven faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force following high school and went on to serve his community with the same dedication and integrity. He began his distinguished law enforcement career as the Marshal of Black Rock, Arkansas, and later served with the Walnut Ridge Police Department. He continued his work as a Criminal Investigator with the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office, ultimately retiring with honor from the Arkansas State Police. His life was marked by courage, integrity, and an unwavering sense of duty.
Steven will be remembered for his kindness, selflessness, and quiet strength. To know him was to be touched by his steady presence and generous heart. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the lives he touched, and the family who loved him deeply.
He will be profoundly missed, but forever remembered.
I met Steve when I was stationed in Lawrence County in 1979. He was cordial and became a good friend. God bless him and his family.
I worked with Steve at Forrest City Troop D. A very good Trooper and friend. God Bless his family.
It saddens me to hear of losing another ASP Brother. He was a great guy and will be missed. May God give his family strength and comfort during this time. May God Bless all his family.
Steve and I were on the Executive Protection Detail for several years. He was a steady coworker and friend.
Steve was my FTO. back in 1989.
What a great guy….!
R. I. P.
I worked with Steve during my time in the detail.... also so helpful.
May GOD Bless his family.
Saddened to hear of the passing of Steve. We worked together many years and enjoyed plenty of laughs. Great guy. To the family, know that he was well respected.
My Troop School Classmate you will be missed brother 🙏🏼
It was my privilege to work with Steve for several years while in the State Police. He wasn't a complainer and could lighten the mood in our very stressful environment. I will always remember him as a friend and a dedicated police officer.
I am so sorry to hear of Steve's passing. I have fond memories of working with him at Arkansas State Police, and even talked with him a few times after he retired. May he Rest in Peace and may God bring comfort to all of his family and friends🙏🏻
I am saddened at Steve's passing. He was my mentor as I looked up to him going back to when he was a Walnut Ridge Police officer and I was a snotty nosed kid who desired to be a cop. He was a great sounding board to me later in life as I ended up as a Deputy U S Marshal. Steve was a dedicated ASP trooper. I had the privilege of working with him on a fugitive investigation that started in Illinois and ended in Arkansas. I will miss him.
Love you dad and so thankful for the time we spent together.