Stephen L. Hitchcock

Afton, NY - Stephen Lawrence Hitchcock, 72, of Afton, NY, passed away peacefully with family by his side on April 14th, 2025.

Steve attended Afton Central School, where he was well known for his athletic abilities that led to sports scholarships along with years of stories/memories of being a phenomenal athlete. He was also known to be a “jack of all trades” including, a certified blackjack dealer in Las Vegas, working the oil wells in Oklahoma with his good friend, John, Broome Industrial Co. with good friend Otto, and telecommunications. He spent the last couple decades of his life as an independent contractor which included, but not limited to roofing, flooring, masonry, logging, building anything and everything from the ground up. He was a well-known entrepreneur who took great pride and passion to create perfection no matter what the job was. One of his many famous mottos, “on time is late.”

He was also an avid member of the Afton Sportsman’s Club for over 40 years, where he enjoyed and dedicated a lot of his time. He was an active board member and at one time, president of the club. It was like a second home to him. He was passionate about taking care of the property amongst other things. He was always involved in the club’s functions, and you could be sure to find him at the BBQ pit where he was a master of the grill, known for his delicious chicken and steaks. He looked forward to the annual club party every year and when it came time to purchase his club tickets, he faithfully picked each of his children’s birthdays every year and got lucky with those numbers many times.

He was never afraid to speak his mind, whether you liked it or not, and always had a witty comeback for everything. Whenever there was a problem, it was always, call Steve/Dad because he had the answer or could fix it. He was a smart man, a math whiz and you could without fail count on him winning a game of rummy and any other card game you would challenge him with.

He is survived by his children, Stephen L. (Jr); Melessa M. Hitchcock; Stephenie L. Hitchcock; Joshua R. Hitchcock; his former wife, Roberta A. Hitchcock; grandchildren, Gage S.; Alahna D. Strong; Gavin R. Hitchcock; Ayden P. Hitchcock and Addilyn G. Hitchcock; his siblings; Edward D. Hitchcock; George A. Hitchcock; Linda D. Hitchcock; Gregory L. Hitchcock; Ronald D. (Sr) Hitchcock; and Steve’s grandson, Gage, is expecting his first child; Oliver G. Strong, due in July, making him a first-time great Grandpa from up above.

He is predeceased by his parents, Cassius Don Hitchcock & Georgia Chloe Hitchcock.

He was known and respected throughout his life. He enjoyed time with his friends Ernie, Tom and Randy to name a few. He was one of a kind and will surely be remembered, loved and sorely missed. His memory will forever stay in the hearts and voices of his loved ones.

A private service will be held at the convenience of his family. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 2-4 pm at the Backdoor Bar, 11 W. Main St. in Bainbridge. Friends and family are invited to attend. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. in Ilion.

To leave condolences for Steve’s family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com