Eldridge Steven Foxworth III, 80, of Baytown, Texas, entered his heavenly home on March 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Jan. 19, 1946, in Ville Platte, La., to E.S. Foxworth Jr. and Marjorie (Launey) Foxworth.
Steve grew up in Louisiana and graduated from the University of Southwestern Louisiana with a degree in marketing. He began his career as a life insurance salesman while still a college student, attempting to sell policies to fellow students who were not yet thinking about buying life insurance. While praying for direction with his young bride, Claudia, God opened a door for him with General Mills. He worked there for 16 years before spending an additional 16 years with Procter & Gamble, where he eventually retired. Earlier in life, he also worked as a buyer for Ronnie Patterson at Ronnie’s. A gifted salesman, he won numerous awards—including “Salesman of the Year”—and his family often joked that he could talk you out of your last dollar and make you glad you gave it.
On January 28, 1967, Steve married the love of his life, Claudia, after meeting her on a blind date at a high school football game. That night, her high heel became stuck in the bleachers; when he helped pull it out, God spoke to him, saying, “This is the one you will marry.” Together they shared 59 beautiful years of marriage, building a home filled with faith, laughter, hospitality, and unconditional love.
Steve loved to cook—especially Cajun dishes—and quickly became the family chef, since Claudia could not cook when they were first married. Family and friends knew they were in for a treat whenever Steve was in the kitchen preparing one of his delicious meals. He dearly loved family, food, and fellowship, and his home was always open for one more place at the table.
A devoted follower of Jesus, Steve was a faithful member of Full Gospel Businessmen. He also served for decades as Vice President for Frank Butler Ministries. He mentored and invested in countless young families. Steve also hosted speakers for the Men’s Fellowship at Memorial Assembly of God, inviting men from all walks of life—including astronauts and the mission commander from Apollo 13—to share their testimonies. If you spent even a few minutes with Steve, he would turn the conversation to Jesus and eternity.
Teaching the Bible was one of his greatest joys. Steve taught Sunday School for most of his adult life and especially loved his BYKOTA class (“Be Ye Kind One To Another”), where he built lasting friendships and memories. He cherished reading his Bible and studying prophecy, often pointing others to his favorite passage, 2 Corinthians 5:21.
Steve’s work took him across East and South Texas, and everywhere he went he talked to people about being born again and told them about Jesus. He was a true soul-winner, convinced that no encounter was accidental. Saved at a prophecy revival in 1971, he spent the rest of his life joyfully telling everyone about his wonderful Savior.
Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Claudia; their four children: Tammy (Knight) and Kendall of Kingwood; Scott and Pamela Foxworth of Montgomery; Kevin and Jennifer Foxworth of Baytown; and Joel Foxworth of Beaumont. He is also survived by his sister, Joanie (Foxworth) and Gene Fontenot. His treasured grandchildren include: Samuel and Kennedy Foxworth; Rachel Foxworth; Victoria and David Foxworth; Noah, Elijah, and Faith Foxworth; and Allie Neill along with Garrett, Emily, and David Neill. He leaves behind a host of extended family members and dear friends who will miss his stories, his cooking, and his unwavering encouragement. He was preceded in death by his parents and by other loved ones who now welcome him into glory.
Steve’s legacy is one of faith, family, and fearless witness. He talked to everyone about Jesus, and even in his final days he wanted others to know the Savior who changed his life. Though his family grieves his passing, they rejoice that he is now in the presence of the Lord he loved so deeply.
A celebration of Steve’s life will be held on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 3 p.m., at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home, located at 1304 N. Cleveland, Dayton, Texas, 77535. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1:30 p.m.