Arthur “Phil” Stedman, Jr.
August 6, 1919 –February 9, 2013
Phil Stedman, a longtime resident of Edgewater and New Smyrna Beach, passed away peacefully at Fairgreen Assisted Living Facility where he had been a resident during the past year. Born and raised in Holyoke and Amherst, MA, he and his family moved to Florida in the mid 50’s. He was the founder of the Stedman’s Self Service Laundry in the 1950’s. Being the first coin-operated laundry in the New Smyrna Beach area, he expanded the business to three laundries. He also started a local bagged ice making/distribution business in the 1960’s which was the forerunner of today’s abundant dispensaries at convenience stores. His passion was an organic rose grower. The roses were enjoyed by 1000’s at local restaurants, banks and the hospital where he freely shared his blooms delivered weekly in mayonnaise jars. He is survived by son Gary and wife Holly of Sedona, AZ, daughter Kristin and husband Dale Clemmer of Lansdale, PA, three granddaughters; Tracy and husband Lincoln Palmer of Darwin, AU, Laura and husband Jason Haynes of Edgewater, FL, Alison and husband Randy Coslow of Edgewater FL, and five great grandchildren, and brother Richard (Dick) and wife Mary of Belchertown, MA. He was preceded in death by his wife Virtue, son Alan, and grandson, Garrick Clemmer.
A service celebrating Phil’s life will be held Saturday, February 23rd at 2:00pm at United Church of Christ 203 Washington Street, New Smyrna Beach.
Donations in his memory to a charity of your choice or to the church are appreciated.
Sincerely,
The Caruso Family