Tonight I would like to adjourn in memory of Stephen Stone, a music industry executive and longtime Santa Clarita Valley resident who passed away last week on April 3rd at the age of 74.
Steve was born in Santa Monica in October 1943 and grew up on his family’s ranch in Sand Canyon. After graduating from Hart High School in 1961, he went on to study at Pacific Life Bible College before beginning a career in the music business.
Steve’s father, Cliffie Stone, was a legend in country and western music and passed on his love to Steve, who became not only a songwriter but also a producer and publisher.
Steve was nominated for three Grammy awards: as a producer on Tennessee Ernie Ford’s “Make a Joyful Noise” album, as a writer on Michelle Pillar’s song “Look Who Loves You Now,” and as a co-producer for “Best Comedy Recording” on Rodney Dangerfield’s “Twist & Shout” from the film “Back to School.”
Most important to Steve though was his family. He and his wife Ina were married for 52 years and spent the past 20 years in Agua Dulce. They have three daughters, Amanda, Amy and Melissa, as well as two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Steve is also survived by his brothers Curtis and Jonathan.
We are saddened by the passing of Stephen Stone, and our thoughts are with his wife Ina, their entire family and all their friends who knew and love Steve.