John R. Stepp

John Raymond Stepp, 83, long time Worcester resident died Thursday November 9, 2017 at UMASS Medical Center Worcester of a heart attack. John Stepp was born October 4, 1934 in Inez, Kentucky and graduated from the University of Kentucky and the University of Michigan (Master’s in Public Health).  Friend’s and colleagues in Worcester may recall his loyalty to the UK Wildcats basketball team over the years by his sweatshirts and license plates.  John Stepp had a long and rewarding career at the Public Health Service, precursor to the Department of Health and Human Services, before he retired from the PHS office in the JFK building in Boston. After his retirement, he was a frequent substitute teacher in the Worcester County Public School system for several years before he slowed down.  His family is grateful to all those in the Worcester community who have helped him in so many different ways throughout the years. Those left to honor his memory include his long time partner of 43 years Jean Issac, his daughters Connie Berajawala and Mary Ann Stepp, their husbands Ashok Berajawala and Jerry Bell, and his four grandchildren: Mark and Jay Berajawala and Christina and Allison Bell. He is also survived by Jean Isaac’s daughters Paula Isaac and Pam Lane as well as Pam Lane’s husband John Lane and their children Robert, Amanda, Kassidy, Tyler, and Johnny.  Memorials can be made to the American Heart Association.