of Harrison, AR
December 20, 1958 - July 21, 2021
Stephen W. Speaker, age 62, of Harrison, passed away Wednesday, July 21, 2021, in Harrison. He was born December 20, 1958, in St Louis, Missouri, the son of and Martha Lou (Richardson) and William Walter Speaker, Jr., who preceded him in death.
Steve was a veteran of the United States Air Force serving as a Medical Service Specialist. After an honorable discharge he received his RN training at Los Medanos Medical College, Pittsburg, California. He then went on to work as an RN for Sutter Delta Medical Center in Antioch, California. After moving to Harrison to care for his father, Steve performed medical care at the Leslie Clinic in Harrison; and later performed hospice care at Hospice of the Hills, prior to serving as an RN employed with North Arkansas Regional Medical Center in Harrison.
Sammie Cribbs, COO/CNO at NARMC adds that staff comments on Steve have been regarding his unprecedented work ethic, strong character of compassion and empathy, positivity, always having a smile on his face, loved breakfast with his coworkers at Neighbor's Mill, always willing to lend a helping hand, was an incredible nurse and excellent clinician. ''Steve was always professional and well respected. Truly a special part of the NARMC team and will be greatly missed!''
Steve is survived by his brother, Robert F. Speaker, of Tokyo, Japan; his niece, Emily Speaker of Okinawa, Japan; his nephew, Kenneth Speaker, of Okinawa, Japan; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Memorial service was Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at Roller-Christeson Funeral Home, with Rev. Dave Smith officiating.
Burial followed at Maplewood Cemetery in Harrison.
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11 Condolence(s)
Shawna Burns
Thursday, September 30, 2021
I was devastated to find out today that Stephen passed away in July. Many may not know this but he worked as a mental health professional -RN for a brief period of time around 2012. I was the supervisor who hired him at a mental health agency and he did a brief internship with me, working with younger children and teenagers who struggled with emotional and behavioral issues. He was so empathetic and caring toward others and always used humor to make people smile. He was so full of life and it breaks my heart that the world is missing such a beautiful spirit. Rest well my friend—you took care of so many on this earth. It’s now your turn to rest ðŸ™
Patty Fordahl
Friday, August 13, 2021
I heard the news today that you have left this world Steve. And the first thing I thought of was how happy Andrea will be to see you! You always made a shift ridiculous in the best way. Those days are always memorable because of the people I was so lucky to work with and you were one of those people.
Christine Smith
Thursday, August 12, 2021
Steve, you were stellar. Both as an RN and as a person. I loved my time in nursing school with you at LMC - only 3 men, and you were the best. I was then thrilled to work with you nearly 12 years later at Sutter Delta. Quick wit, compassion and smarts. You made me a better nurse.
I still recall when we did clinicals at Mt Diablo and Muriel fell off the chair and was sprawled on the floor and you later imitated her to me in private. I remember when you helped me with a urinary catheter and pointed out why I was having trouble. I remember when you got into it with Sugarman once in the ED and you were right. I remember all the times you would come up and warn me in Fast Track "Don't pick up that patient, you will regret it. Or, "pick that patient up, she is wonderful".
Steve, you were a gem. Tell Andrea we miss her too and have a big old party up there!
Vickie Johnson
Tuesday, August 10, 2021
I worked with Steve at Sutter Delta Emergency Department in Antioch,CA. He was a great co worker and had a great sense of humor. I have great memories of working with a very good nurse and kind friend.
Vicki Biggs
Tuesday, August 10, 2021
Rest in peace Steve.it was a pleasure to work with you. I will miss your smile and compassion and humor. See you in Heaven my friend.
Rachel Owens
Friday, August 6, 2021
It was always a treat to get to float and work with Steve. He was so compassionate, knowledgeable, and encouraging. He was always there to lend a helping hand. We shared a lot of laughs when we worked together. Thanks for the memories my friend.
Sammie Cribbs
Wednesday, August 4, 2021
Steve was an incredible nurse, a compassionate person and a man who enjoyed life with others. Steve was always willing to help, offering an encouraging word and smile of hope. In our hearts and our memories Steve will always remain with us!
Anita Leslie
Tuesday, August 3, 2021
Compassionate nurse with great sense of humor. Will be missed by all who worked with him. Glad to have met and worked with Steve.
Jennifer Lee
Thursday, July 29, 2021
Steve will certainly be missed! What a WONDERFUL man, and nurse! ðŸ™ðŸ»â¤ï¸
Charles Johnson
Thursday, July 29, 2021
A long time friend.
Terri Day
Thursday, July 29, 2021
Steve, I was just beginning to like you! Hahaha! I'll miss your sense of humor, your encouragement to be my best as a CNA and as an artist. And I'll miss your kindness of bringing food and making your especially strong coffee! I'll not soon forget the passion in which you spoke of just how much Jesus suffered for us all! Gone too soon my friend!