Stephen Douglas Lord, known to his friends as "Doc" or "Smege," passed away on September 23, 2026, just two months shy of his 81st birthday, surrounded by his whole family. He was born on November 24, 1945, in Hope, Maine, to Beulah (Starrett) Lord and Dr. Judson P. Lord. After graduating from high school, Stephen took a road trip out west with friends. Upon his return, he worked briefly at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft before enlisting in the U.S. Army.

Stephen served in the Army Security Agency, including a two-year tour in Japan, a period he enjoyed immensely, often sharing fond memories of Sapporo, Chitose, and Hokkaido. Following his deployment in Japan, he was stationed in Turkey, where he thoroughly enjoyed visiting Greece and the Isle of Rhodes. After returning home from military service, he attended the University of Maine, earning his Associate's degree in Liberal Arts.

Steve and his wife, Gail, were married in Richmond, Maine, on February 18, 1977, with the Reverend Herbert S. Hixon officiating. In September of that year, they made their home in Union, Maine, where they raised their children, Douglas and Christina.

Stephen spent his career as a lineman for Verizon Communications, retiring in 2001. He was an avid wheeler and dealer, always on the lookout for a big deal at lawn sales or auctions. His true passion was buying and selling coins, a hobby that began when he bought his first coin at age 10 and later led him to work at two local coin shops during his retirement.

He was also a music enthusiast, regularly attending blues night at the Park St. Grill and karaoke nights at the Legion and the Outback Saloon with his beloved wife of 49 years, Gail (Bicknell) Lord. Despite not being much of a dancer, Stephen had a deep appreciation for music and cherished sharing these moments with his wife and community.

Stephen is survived by his wife, Gail; their daughters, Christina Merrifield (John) and Tammie Gerrish Carlisle (Andrew); and their son, Douglas Lord (Robin). He also leaves behind five grandchildren and two step-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Judson and Beulah Lord, and his sister, Louise Pottle Joki.

Visitation will be held on October 13, 2026, from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m., at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland. 

Family and friends are invited to share memories and upload photos to Stephen’s memorial page. Your stories and pictures will help honor the remarkable life of a man who brought joy, laughter, and wisdom to all who knew him.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, Rockland.