Stephen Sailsbery died at his home in Willows on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022. He was born in Willows to Robert and Laura (Falk) Sailsbery on Jan. 16, 1961.
Outside of serving his country proudly in the United States Army, with stations in Missouri, Texas, and Germany, his roots started and remained in northern California, where he, and his wife, Nancy, built a life of education and service.
He graduated from Orland High School in 1979, and, following three years of Army service, returned to graduate from California State University, Chico, in 1990, and received his teaching credential the following year. He enjoyed a prosperous career with the Willows Unified School District, serving as a history teacher for a number of years before moving to principal positions at Willows Community High School and Willows Intermediate School, retiring in June, 2022.
He also served for a number of years as an administrator in the Butte Community College Night Class Program. He was loved and respected for his devotion to his students and his sense of fairness.
His sense of service did not end with his honorable discharge from the Army. He served the VA while in college, providing transportation for veterans to medical appointments.
He also supported local VFW activities for a number of years.
As committed as he was to educating young people and honoring veterans, his joy was even greater in serving his family. Steve and Nancy loved helping raise their “Pride and Joy,” their grandson, Matthew.
Steve beamed as he loved hanging out with his buddy, Matthew.
Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Nancy, daughter Charisse Stava, and grandson Matthew Buren, all of Willows. He is also survived by his brother, Tim (Tracy) Sailsbery, of Orland.
A memorial service is planned for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14, at Open Gate Christian Fellowship, 950 West Laurel Street, Willows. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Steve’s honor to VFW Post 1770, 525 West Sycamore, Suite 5A, Willows, CA 95988.
The Glenn County Observer 