Stephen Mark Crowe (15 Oct 1964 - 24 Jan 2022)

In loving memory of Stephen Mark Crowe a beloved son to Barbara and the late Ken Crowe and dearest brother to Jonathan and Debbie, who sadly passed away on 24th January 2022.
Stephen born with Down's Syndrome defied the predictions of the time of never amounting to anything, to go on to lead a fulfilling happy and joyful life and gained skills and made significant achievements.
Stephen lived in the family home for many years and then moved on into supported living at Barnabas House and then more recently Autumn Cottage.
As a child Stephen attended Lancaster School and as an adult the Avro Centre for people with Learning Disabilities and gained a role working at Rayleigh Police Station helping out on the post run and then Hadleigh Traing Centre in the cafe there.
Stephen loved his family, his mum, his dad who he missed greatly, his brother and sister and nephews and nieces, loving people and building strong bonds with everyone he met and will be remembered for his cheeky smile and infectious giggle and amazing hugs and genuine love for them, although strong willed and stubborn at times too!
Stephen was an avid supporter of Southend United Football, showing faith where others failed and although did not attend many games would listen on the radio and loved to talk 'football' with his dad when he was alive.
Stephen had a great love of music- especially the drums and was one of the very first members of MENCAP Music School even getting to play the drums on the stage at The London Palladium.
Stephen was dedicated to Avenue Baptist Church taking his role of Church Steward very seriously and always ensuring the offering was part of the service, even if this meant reminding the minister mid sermon!
Stephen also brought his musical skills to the church and part of the worship team would play the bongos but was always a fan of the more lively tunes.
Stephen was a volunteer for many years at the church mother and toddler group and here too built strong links with those who attended.
Stephen was a member of The Seekers group at Avenue Baptist Church, a group dedicated to making the Christian life more understandable and accessible for adults with learning disabilities and had many friends and happy times, including holidays away with this group of friends.
Sadly in his later years Stephen developed dementia and needed more help and support but his amazing smile and giggle never faltered.
Stephen we will miss you so much.