Stephen Michael McMahan, age 55, departed this life on March 19, 2026, peacefully at home with his wife by his side.

Steve was the life of every gathering, a man who could turn strangers into friends and friends into family.

Steve was born on June 30, 1970, in Knoxville to the late Tonya McMahan and Samuel “Sam” Bush. He attended Knoxville City Schools and graduated from Fulton High School—where the Falcons Fly High. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy to proudly serve his country.

Steve was employed with Keurig Dr Pepper for over 14 years, most recently serving as a Tech II. He was also a proud small Black business owner of SMOKED OUT, known for his unforgettable slogan: “While y’all be joking, I’ll be smoking.” Along with his parents, Steve is preceded in death by his brother; numerous aunts and uncles; nephews; sister‑in‑law; and cousins.

Steve leaves to cherish his cheerful and loving memory: his devoted wife, Cherry; daughter Jedida; bonus daughter Jalessa Smith; bonus sons Richard “Bubba” Stokes and Bryan Tillery, Jr.; and mother-in-law, Wanda Wollo. He is also survived by his sisters Crystal McMahan, Angela Ross, Tracy Miller, and Treva Bush. His extended sisters Ingrid, Angela, LaToya and JaTwan.

He was affectionately known as “Mac” by his ten grandchildren—with one more on the way—and one great‑grandchild. He is also survived by two brothers‑in‑law, Rauf Muhammad and James (Deanna) Gordon, III. Steve shared a special bond with each of his nieces and nephews: Darius Miller, Xavier Walker, Little Fred Elder, Jr., Darian, Yasmine McMahan, and Lestajah Goodman. Along with a host of other relatives and loved ones too numerous to name.

Steve was well‑known and well‑loved—not only by those close to him, but by anyone he encountered. He never met a stranger. He had many friends he considered brothers, including his lifelong friend since elementary school, Clarence “CJ” Easterly, along with many others too numerous to name.

He was a man who loved deeply, laughed loudly, and embraced everyone as family. His kindness and humor left an imprint on every life he touched.

This loss is a bitter pill to swallow, but we rest in the comfort of knowing that God makes no mistakes, and Steve is now resting in the bosom of our Lord.