Stephen T. Mexia, age 86 of Wilmington, DE, formerly of Columbia, MD peacefully entered the presence of the Lord on Sunday, July 28, 2024.
He was born in Portsmouth, VA to the late Consuela (Aponte) and Esteban Mexia. Stephen graduated from Theodore Roosevelt High School in the District of Columbia, Washington in 1957. After graduation, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy as an Airman during the Vietnam War.
Stephen began his civilian life working for the Smith Corona Corporation and eventually found his lifelong passion in the field of computers. He worked for Control Data Corporation for many years repairing mainframe computers. As the technology changed, Stephen continually reinvented himself and became an expert in Personal Computer maintenance and repair. Ever the continuous learner, he took a multitude of Continuous Education credits to broaden his knowledge and make himself more marketable. He worked for a number of organizations throughout his career focusing primarily on contracts that supported numerous Federal Government Agencies, the most notable of which were the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, MD and the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren, VA.
Retirement did not result in any slowdown for Stephen. In addition to his love for music and dancing, he continued to expand his knowledge base and learn new things including the sports of fencing and archery. In fact, he became a Maryland State Champion Archer, and introduced his love for the sport to many members of the younger generation as an Olympic-certified Archery Trainer. He loved working with children! He was an avid sports fan and was passionate about automobile racing – both NASCAR and Formula 1. He was also active in the community and served on the board of his local Home Owners Association.
Stephen is survived by his two daughters, Robin D. Mexia and Cheryl Mexia Lundell and her husband Pern Lundell III; two grandchildren, Jennifer Lundell and Pern Lundell IV and his wife Jesse; great-grandsons, Pern Lundell V and Lucas Lundell. He is also preceded in death by his siblings, Evelyn Jackson and Sonia Aldoy.
Services will be held at Brandywine Valley Church on August 23rd at 10:00AM and burial will be held privately.
Stephen had given thought and guidance for his celebration of life service. His exact words were, “No long faces and no dark, stuffy clothing.” In fact, we invite everyone to wear brightly colored and comfortable attire. Hawaiian shirts are encouraged!
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
