Stephen “Steve” Taylor Poynter of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, surrounded by his family after a year-long battle with leukemia. He was 75 years old. Steve’s life was defined by devotion to his family, a love of sports, and a gift for connecting with people. His passing leaves a legacy of warmth, humor, and resilience that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Born on December 19, 1950, in Maysville, Kentucky, Steve was the son of James Taylor and Patty Poynter. He grew up with a strong sense of family values and carried those lessons throughout his life. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 54 years, Mary “Libby” Poynter, with whom he shared a remarkable journey of love and partnership.
Together, they raised their daughter, Heather Dugan, and celebrated the joy of three granddaughters — Brooke, Taylor, and McKenzie — who were his pride and joy. Steve is also survived by his brother, Tim Poynter, and his wife Terry of Ft. Collins, Colorado, along with nieces Courtney and Erin and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Matt Poynter.
Steve spent most of his career in sales, working for Browning Manufacturing, Cincinnati Transmission, US Tsubaki, and Motion Industries, where he retired in 2014. Known for his easygoing nature, Steve rarely met a stranger. He had a gift for drawing people into conversation and was quick to share a laugh, bringing humor and lightheartedness wherever he went. His professional life reflected his ability to build relationships and his genuine interest in others.
Outside of work, Steve’s passions were golf and soccer. He began playing golf at the age of seven and never lost his enthusiasm for the game. Even into his later years, he continued to play regularly, winning super senior trophies at Old Fort Golf Club in Murfreesboro, where he enjoyed weekly tee times with his golfing buddies.
His love of soccer began when his daughter Heather started playing at age six. Steve not only coached but also refereed at a high level, serving as a referee assignor and mentor during their years in Cincinnati. His involvement in sports reflected his dedication to supporting his family and community.
Steve’s faith and service were also central to his life. He volunteered at the churches he attended, serving as an usher, participating on committees, and helping with youth programs. He and Libby enjoyed traveling with Heather and her family, creating lasting memories together. His granddaughters were the light of his world, and he never missed an opportunity to cheer them on at school or sporting events, just as he had done for his children. His encouragement and presence were constant sources of strength and love.
Visitation for Steve will be held at St. Marks United Methodist Church, 1267 N. Rutherford Blvd., Murfreesboro, on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of memorial services beginning at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Tommy Ward officiating.
His cremated remains will be entombed in the columbarium at St. Marks. Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to St. Marks United Methodist Church or Empower Me Center in Lebanon, Tennessee, where his granddaughter Taylor attends summer camp. These contributions will honor Steve’s legacy of love, service, and family devotion.