Wesley E. Stearns

Wesley E. Stearns, 72, of Fleming Island, FL passed away Thursday, May 27, 2010. He was born on February 1, 1938 in Pensacola, FL to parents Samuel Stearns and Earline Oster. Mr. Stearns honorably served his country in the United States Navy and retired after 23 years of service as a Chief Warrant Officer. He moved here with his family in 1979 from Corpus Christi, TX. After retiring from active duty Mr. Stearns worked at NADEP at the Jacksonville Naval Air Station from 1982 until 2003. Wesley was of the Protestant faith and a loyal member of the Orange Park Presbyterian Church. Mr. Stearns was a member of the Clay County Shrine Club and a member of Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS). Wesley was also the girl’s softball coach for the OPAA from 1985 until 1995. He volunteered his time for many organizations but what he was most proud of was his work thru the Salvation Army after Hurricane Katrina hit Biloxi, MS. On Saturdays you could find Wesley in front of the TV cheering on his favorite football team, the Florida Gators. He also enjoyed softball and loved to fish. He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Jean Stearns; daughters, Mary Stearns and Cheryl (Christopher) Stearns-Thompson; brothers, Earl (Carolyn) and Mike (Marilyn) Oster and grandchildren, John Stearns and Taylor Thompson. A memorial service will be held 3:00 pm Sunday, June 13, 2010 at Orange Park Presbyterian Church with Reverend Tim Roberts officiating. Military honors will be conferred at the service. Please sign the family's online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com. Cremation arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring Street, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043 (904) 284-4000.