Stephen McCandless

Age 73, Greenville, S.C.

Stephen McCandless, age 73, of Greenville, SC, died from heart failure on Saturday, October 17, 2026. 

He was a remarkable, compassionate and loving person and a dear friend to many people and animals. The best Dog Dad with Scarlett, Lily Belle and Betty Lou happily meeting him at Heaven’s gate. He was the one who would stop to get a turtle out of the road and loved going to Golden Retriever pool parties. 

Steve had a passion for the Earth and loved growing flowers, vegetables, and especially zinnias. Every morning when I awoke, I would find a freshly cut bouquet of flowers by my bedside. His thought was “ I would rather grow you flowers than buy them.” He could spend all day preparing the soil for a new addition to our garden and loving every minute.

His love for nature extended to the mountains and the ocean. He would hike for hours on a mountain trail, stopping to admire a waterfall or a salamander. Still in his 70s, he would surf the ocean waves and build elaborate sandcastles, very proud when someone stopped to admire his creation. In his last days, we drove the Blue Ridge Parkway to Mount Mitchell on Oct 16. They got their first snow on Oct. 17, the day he passed away. He would have loved that.

Steve earned a B.S degree in marine biology and zoology from Duke University, continuing his education with MBA and MHA, Master’s degrees in Business and Health Administration, also from Duke University. We had a family rivalry since I graduated from UNC Chapel Hill. Especially during basketball season, both flags were proudly displayed in our front yard. At Duke, he was a member of Beta Phi Zeta fraternity and still 50 years later was in close touch with his fraternity brothers. At reunion events, each of his brothers would tell me what a fine person he was and they cherished his lifelong friendship.

Having been in ROTC at Duke, he continued with the United States Air Force, earning the rank of Captain. During his service, he was awarded two Medals of Commendation for meritorious service. After serving in the Air Force, he pursued a career in Healthcare Administration, becoming Director of Contracts and Managed Care for several large hospital systems. 

Steve was predeceased by his father, Robert McCandless, and his mother, Joan McCandless; and also a sister, Kim McCandless. His mother-in-law, Aileen Loyd, who passed away in 2025, absolutely adored him. She would be so happy when he walked in the door, holding out her arms for a big hug. 

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Gibson, and his father-in-law, Max Loyd. Our time with him just wasn’t long enough. 

His wish was to be cremated with no services. If you choose, you may honor his memory with a gift to your favorite charity. He would like that.

Arrangements are being handled by the Bradley Funeral Home in Luray, Va.