It is with great sadness that I inform you of the tragic passing of one of our colleagues in the State Parks Division. Mr. Steve Kimbley passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 27th at his home, just outside of Clifton, TX.
Steve proudly served in the United States Navy and then earned his Bachelor’s degree from West Texas A&M University. Steve was a dedicated and passionate member of our TPWD family with over 11 years of service to the State Parks Division. Steve began his career in the summer of 2014 in Northeast Texas Region 6, spending time at both Tyler and Atlanta State Parks. He then took on the Superintendent role, leading teams at both Meridian and Galveston Island State Parks. Since December 2023, Steve has served as the Regional Maintenance Specialist of the Mighty Region 5 out of Waco. He flourished in every role, as he truly lived out service to others in his words and actions. Steve genuinely loved people, making deep connections with others easy for him. His influence extends beyond Texas, as state parks from around the country are reaching out as they were impacted by Steve during his time at the National State Park Leadership School. He was incredibly skilled at collaboration and circling a team around a common goal; this skill made him the perfect fit in project management. He had a big, beautiful personality and infectious energy. You simply could not have a bad day when Steve was around, and if your smile was missing, he made sure you found it.
Steve’s larger-than-life personality made him a fast friend. He formed strong bonds at every stop along his journey. Every year, Steve looked forward to an annual fishing trip on the coast with colleagues Joey Speer, Aaron Johnston, Bradley Walker, and Sam Knox; these were colleagues he loved as brothers and guys that meant the absolute world to him.
Nothing made Steve smile bigger than talking about his girls. He had just walked through high school graduation with his middle daughter, Jaidaa, and as parents do, he was keeping his fingers crossed that he had adequately prepared her for all of the life to come. He loved talking about softball, as his youngest daughter Tessa continued to grow her love of the game. Being a “dugout Dad” made him beam with pride. His oldest daughter, Liliana, is writing her own story, and he was extremely proud of her independence. His girls were his legacy, his highest priority, his most monumental achievement, and his greatest joy.
Many are reeling with Steve’s devastating loss. If you are unsure of what to do, the words of Steve’s friend and current Meridian Superintendent are the best I’ve heard: “The best thing I can think to do right now is keep Steve’s spirit alive. Be the light of joy he could bring into a room, provide mentorship and uplifting support to everyone without hesitation, love loud and be gracious louder.”
A memorial service for Steve will be held on July 13 at 1:00P at the Meridian Civic Center, located at 309 West River Street in Meridian, TX. A memorial account is being established at First Security State Bank in Clifton to support his daughters. If you would like to contribute, make checks payable to Michael Kimbley acct#....0919. Contributions can be mailed to:
First Security State Bank
1115 WEST 5th St, PO BOX 69
Clifton TX 76634
Please join me in keeping Steve’s wife Celia and their daughters, Tessa, Jaidaa, and Liliana, and the entire Kimbley family in your thoughts and prayers. You may view Steve’s obituary here: Steven Anthony Kimbley Obituary June 27, 2025 - Clifton Funeral Home
