Jon Stephen Pride

Jon Stephen Pride — an artist, writer, and adventurer in life,  has found peace, leaving the world and its challenges behind on December 9, 2023

Stephen was the third of five sons born to Richard and Nadine Pride on August 25, 1946, in Hot Springs, Arkansas.  Growing up in a military family, he lived in many places, ultimately graduating from Pacific Grove High School in California.  After a year attending San Francisco State College, he moved to Tennessee, to be near family and attended Memphis Art Academy

Always an adventurer, his spirit drew him back to  San Francisco during the heyday of the 1960s. In time, however, he moved to Port Townsend, Washington where he completed an undergraduate degree at Evergreen College (now university) and did graduate work at the Leadership Institute of Seattle.

In Washington, he spent several years as a Chemical Dependence Professional (CDP) and as an advocate in an agency working with child welfare cases, a job that tore at his generous and loving heart.

Always off to new adventures, seldom bound by the constraints that restrain many, Stephen brought his artistic talent to whatever he undertook.  He was a visual artist, a poet and writer, an impressive hair stylist, a master of calligraphy, and artistically-designed gift wrapping with a sharp awareness of fashion and interior design.

Stephen’s friendly and outgoing nature always brought him new friends, and his move to Nashville in 2003 was no exception.  John Chambers and Robert Sirvio, in particular, became like extended family, providing love and support in numerous ways,  including hosting the first of his two art shows in Nashville in 2005 and encouraging the second. It was through their efforts that Stephen became involved in Fifty Forward, where his social and writing skills were tapped.

Stephen loved his animals — two horses and household pets in Washington and Penny, his little dog companion in Nashville for many years.

Preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gary Owen, Stephen is survived by his brother Richard Alan (Dana), Kevin Lucas (Lynn), David Wayne (Sarah) and six nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service followed by a reception will be held at 11:30 January 14 at McKendree United Methodist Church (523 Church Street) following the regular 10 a.m Sunday service 

Nashville Cremation Center is honored to be entrusted with handling Mr. Pride's arrangements. Please visit his guestbook to leave a thoughtful note for the family.