Stephen Sweeting, age 83, passed away on April 22, 2026. He proudly served as a United States Marine and was involved in the Bay of Pigs conflict. Following his military service, he dedicated over 40 years to Ingalls Shipbuilding, where he earned a well-respected reputation for his hard work and character. Stephen had a deep love for the ocean and found joy in everything it offered—boating, fishing, and simply being on the water. He attended First Baptist Church of Gautier, where he worshiped alongside his wife. Above all, Stephen was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished Papa. His family was the center of his life, and his love for them was unwavering. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

WE LOVE YOU, this isn't goodbye, and we will see you again.

He is preceded in death by his son, Stephen Harry Sweeting; parents, Harry Robert Sweeting and Hilda Beck Giles; siblings, “Bob” Robert Sweeting and Charlotte Beck “Becky” Blankinship.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Diane Inez Lundy Sweeting; children, Sean (Kelli) Timothy Sweeting, Matthew Scott Sweeting, and Heather Diane (Duane Hope) Sweeting; grandchildren, Joshua Stephen Sweeting, Elizabeth Selena Sweeting (Brandon) Ruffin, Austin Blake Sweeting, Matthew David (Anna) Sweeting, April Lozane Sweeting, Seth Andrew (Mariah) Sweeting, Kyle Royce (Alexis) Sweeting, Faith Leigh’Ann Sweeting, Gabrielle Faith Hope, Isabelle Ariel Hope, and Tyler “Ty” Sweeting; great- grandchildren, Raleigh Jean Ruffin, Athena Rose’Alenne Sweeting, Adam Nathaniel Ruffin, John Timothy Ruffin, Kaiden Lee Sweeting, Keaton David Sweeting, Corbett Ellis Sweeting, Colby Matthew Sweeting, Mattie Raine Sweeting, Kelli Ann Sweeting, Wyatt Anthony Sweeting, Milissa Ethel Sweeting, Jackson Royce Sweeting, Elizabeth Sweeting, Karson Sweeting, and Emerson Sweeting; numerous other relatives and friends.   

The Graveside will be Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 11:00 AM with Visitation beginning at 10:00 AM at Tanner’s Cemetery with XL “Dutsie” Lundy officiating. Honorary Pallbearers will be his grandsons.

Moments Funeral Home, locally owned and operated, is honored to be in charge of arrangements.