Steven “Steve” Lynn Bigham, 62
December 31, 1963 – May 9, 2026
Steven Lynn Bigham, best known to everyone simply as Steve, departed this earthly life and entered into his eternal rest on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Diversicare Health and Rehabilitation Center in Ripley, Mississippi.
On December 31, 1963, the world received a one-of-a-kind soul when Steve was born to the late James Edward and Doris Irene Witt Bigham. Truthfully, as his family lovingly says, the Lord absolutely broke the mold after Steve came along. Receiving his education through North Pontotoc, Steve spent most of his younger years doing exactly what Steve wanted to do, when he wanted to do it. Wild-hearted, stubborn, and completely unbothered by rules, he became somewhat legendary around Ecru for tearing across town and jumping the railroad tracks at full speed while trying to outrun the local police chief…who just so happened to be his daddy. Fearless may not always have been the wisest way to live, but it certainly made Steve unforgettable.
As the years passed and life slowed down a little, Steve settled into the simple routines that made him happiest. He was a man who found comfort in quiet living and the little things most people overlook. A true introvert at heart, Steve preferred his small circle, the comfort of home, and a predictable day. He could usually be found stretched out on the couch with his faithful, slightly overweight dog nearby, the television running reruns of Star Trek or MASH*, a model car project close by, sports cards scattered around, and—without fail—a Pepsi in his hand.
To say Steve loved Pepsi would honestly be an understatement. His family joked there was probably very little actual blood in his veins, believing instead he was made up of about 98% Pepsi and maybe 2% everything else. Five or six a day was just considered normal for him, and if you ever stopped by without bringing him one, you probably heard about it.
Though Steve lived life differently than most, those who loved him knew there was nobody else quite like him. Beneath his rebellious ways and quirky habits was a man who was genuine, loyal to those he cared about, and perfectly content being himself in a world that often expects people to fit a mold he never had any interest in fitting.
While his family will miss him deeply, they find comfort imagining Steve now completely whole, finally at peace in a quiet Heavenly place where the television stays on all day long, the dogs are spoiled rotten, and the Pepsi never runs dry.
Steve leaves behind his niece, Terri Freeman (John); his nephew, Buddy Hall; his great-niece, Corrina Walters (Aaron); two great-nephews, Colby Hall (Sarah) and Cason Hall (Ashley); a special cousin, Karen Bigham; and his faithful, chunky canine companion who brought him endless joy and companionship through the years.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Faye Bigham.
In honoring Steve’s wishes, he will be cremated and no formal services will be held at this time. Honestly, Steve probably would not have wanted a lot of fuss anyway. Instead, those who knew and loved him are encouraged to honor his memory in the most fitting ways possible: drink a cold Pepsi today and every day after, give your dog an extra treat or two, watch an old episode of MASH*, and if you ever find yourself near the railroad tracks in Ecru…well, maybe think about Steve and smile.
Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Steve’s family.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
