Stephen Lee Counterman, Sr.

Mr. Stephen Lee Counterman, Sr., affectionately known as "Steve and Pawpaw", passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital at the age of 76.

Born on April 13, 1948 in Celina, Ohio, Steve was the beloved son of the late Leroy Counterman and Mary Juanita Yocum Counterman.  He was married 51 years to Nancy Allene Crosby Counterman who stood by his side through life's many journeys.

A graduate of Chester Senior High School, Steve was a member of the 1962 Chester High School Football State Championship and actively participated in the FFA Chapter during his time there.  A devoted farmer, he dedicated his life to Counterman Farms where he found joy in nurturing the land and livestock as well as operating his bulldozer.  His passion for agriculture was matched only by his love for family as he passionately supported his grandchildren in all their numerous activities.

Steve served his community through his past membership on the USDA FSA Board and as a member of the Farm Bureau FSA Board.  He treated everyone with kindness, respect and unwavering loyalty, earning him the love and admiration of all who knew him.  He was a mentor to younger generations, fellow farmers and emerging leaders in the community, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

He is survived by his sister, Lynn Counterman Bain (Dale) of Pensacola, FL and his brother, Neal Counterman (Lynda) of Chester, SC.  He will be dearly missed by his sons, Lee Counterman and his wife, Laurie, of Clinton, SC and Jamie Counterman and his wife, Ginny, of Simpsonville, SC.  As a Pawpaw, he cherished moments spent with Trey, Jack, William (Chelsea), Noble (Kayley), Barrett and Ella, as well as being a loving great grandfather to Corley, Teal and Gracelynn.

Steve's legacy of love, hard work and mentorship will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privileged to know him.

A Celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Chester Freedom Ministries in Chester at 3:00 PM with visitation from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the church.  The family will receive guests at Counterman Farm, 1863 Brown Rd., Richburg, SC prior to the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his honor to FFA at the Chester County Career Center, 1324 JA Cochran Bypass, Chester, SC 29706

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.barronfuneralhome.com.