Stephen William Chambliss

The wife and children of Stephen William Chambliss announce his sudden and peaceful death on Sunday, November 23, 2025, while asleep off watch, and away at work on the water. He was 67. 

Steve was happy, vibrant, active and strong in body, soul and spirit. His footprint in this life gave him the nickname of “Bigfoot” among his colleagues. Often described by others as the “Gentle Giant,” Steve made everyone he met feel loved and welcomed, a trait he inherited from his dad. Fondly being called “Poppa Steve” by his grandchildren filled his heart with joy. 

His favorite scripture was the 23rd Psalm, especially “He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.” 

Steve’s great pleasure was spending time with his family, who were also his greatest pride. He was a gifted carpenter and woodworker. He loved fishing and being in nature, and worshiping God on his own and with other believers. Steve was a member of First Baptist Church of Eunice, Louisiana along with his wife, Karen, and spent many years serving as a deacon at First Baptist Church of Opelousas. 

The oldest of four brothers, Steve made many joyful memories during his school years in Tehran, Iran, where he graduated in 1976. After high school, he served in the U.S. Navy and attended college for one year on a basketball scholarship. Steve then found his true calling as a U.S. Merchant Mariner. He became a ship’s Captain and successfully worked internationally and domestically supporting the offshore oil and gas industry for nearly 46 years. He loved ships and exploring the world on the water. Steve was employed at Harvey Gulf International Marine as a Captain at the time of his death. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Karen Chambliss of Lawtell, Louisiana; son Jared Chambliss and his wife Aimee along with their children Evangeline and Graham of Aiken, South Carolina; and daughter Erica Jimenez and her husband Jose Luis of Denver, Colorado. 

He is also survived by his beloved mother, Shirley Chambliss, of Denham Springs, Louisiana; his brothers, Stanley Chambliss and Stuart Chambliss along with Stuart’s wife, Susan; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends. 

He is preceded in death by his father, William (“Josh” or “Bill”) Chambliss of Opelousas, Louisiana and brother, Kevin Scott (“Scotty”) Chambliss of Corrigan, Texas. 

A private service was held in Steve’s honor at Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Eunice, Louisiana.

Ardoin's Funeral Home of Eunice, 1301 West Laurel Ave, (337)457-3371 is in charge of arrangements.