Stearn -Jonathan Mark Stearn, age 67, of Callahan, Florida passed away July 5, 2023, in Fernandina Beach, Florida following a valiant year-long battle with cancer. He was born April 16, 1956, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, to Jim and Julia Stearn.  Mark was a 1974 graduate of West Nassau High School where he excelled in school and played football for three years. He loved to read and learn and was extremely smart. Mark had a heart of gold and was a hard worker. He joined the US Coast Guard following graduation and loved it. Mark was stationed for three years in Kodiak, Alaska, which was right up his alley. Following his military service, Mark got a job with the Container Corporation as a Land Surveyor. That was back in the day when surveyors carried all the equipment through the dense woods for hours. Mark loved surveying and learned so much from his boss, Nathan Bowers. He later worked for US Gypsum for about 10 years. Mark was an avid Arkansas Razorback fan, just like his dad! He loved to tinker with things and was always working around his home. Mark was a happy-go-lucky man that never really let things get to him. His last few months were difficult and challenging, however he forged ahead and was a hero to his family. He fought so hard and was so brave with every hurdle he was faced with.  Mark is preceded in death by his oldest brother, Dub Stearn.

Mark is survived by his parents, Jim and Julia Stearn of Kingsland, Georgia; wife, Stephanie T. Stearn of Callahan, Florida; stepdaughter, Lindsey Weisel of Callahan, Florida; sons, Chris (Amanda) Stearn of Yulee, Florida and Kevin Stearn of St. Marys, Georgia; siblings, Marci (David) Scott of Ameila Island, Florida, Gus (Christie) Stearn of Fernandina Beach, Florida and Dawn (Roger) West of Hilliard, Florida; sister-in-law, Carol Stearn of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida ; and several extended family members and friends.

The tribute above was prepared by Mark's loving family.

A Celebration of Mark's Life will be held on Sunday, July 9, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. at Nassau Funeral Home with Bro. Mike Self officiating.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.  Interment will be held on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery where military honors will be rendered.  The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011. 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guest book.