Stephen Edward “Steve” Toliver, 69, of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, passed away June 22, 2026.

Steve was born August 18, 1956, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to James Edward Toliver and Shirley Jean Stephens. A lifelong Sapulpa resident, he graduated from Sapulpa High School in 1974.

Early in life, Steve felt a calling to serve God and others. After once being asked to preach on short notice, he realized that traditional ministry was not his path. Encouraged by a friend to apply as a reserve officer, Steve joined the Sapulpa Police Department, beginning the calling he came to view as his lifelong ministry of serving and protecting others. He often joked that he joined so he could drive fast without getting into trouble, but those who knew him understood his work was a true calling.

Steve dedicated more than 30 years to law enforcement. He served over 20 years with the Sapulpa Police Department, retiring as a lieutenant, and later served as Creek County Sheriff from 2001 to 2012. A strong and forward-thinking leader, he helped modernize law enforcement operations and earned statewide recognition, including Oklahoma Sheriff of the Year in 2003 and induction into the Oklahoma Sheriffs’ Hall of Fame in 2013.

He remained active in his profession and community, serving as President of the Sapulpa Fraternal Order of Police, participating in the Oklahoma Sheriffs Association and Kiwanis, and volunteering with Creek County Civil Defense as a storm chaser.

Steve married Deborah “Debi” Bettencourt-Nunley on December 14, 1984. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who deeply cherished his family.

Steve enjoyed fishing, hunting, hiking, Jeep trails, traveling in the RV, and spending time at the lake. He also enjoyed amateur radio, CB radio, computer programming, and gaming.

He will be remembered as a man of deep faith, a dedicated public servant, a strong leader, and a loving family man.

Survivors include his wife, Debi; daughters Monica Childress and husband Jerry of Jay; Valerie Hilburn and husband Brian of Sapulpa; and Tiffany Marshall and husband Andrew of Tulsa; six grandchildren, Samantha, Toby, Madelyn, Livie, Anderson, and Audrey; two great-grandchildren; his mother-in-law, Sandi Nunley; and a large extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, James Rodney Toliver; and his father-in-law, Monte Nunley.

Visitation will be 3-5 pm, Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Traditions Funeral Chapel in Kellyville. Services will be 2 pm, Monday, June 29, 2026, at Bethany Holiness Church, 15508 W. 61st St S., Sand Springs, Oklahoma with burial to follow at South Heights Cemetery in Sapulpa.

Arrangements are under the direction of Traditions Funeral and Cremation Services, 35 S. Main, Kellyville, OK, 918-247-7373.