Former Karnataka footballer Stephen, aged 38, passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, 11:30 AM at SK Hospital, Jalahalli. He was undergoing treatment for jaundice.
Known for his skill as a striker, Stephen was a talented player who represented Karnataka in the Santosh Trophy campaigns of 2011 and 2012. Also, he played in various prestigious tournaments during his career including B.C. Roy Trophy in 2007, held in Faridabad, and U-21 National Football Championship.
Stephen also represented BDFA XI in the All India Football Tournament held at Don Bosco, Chennai, where his team emerged as winners in 2012. During his club career, he played for teams such as Universal FC, BEL, KSP, and BEML (KGF), and trained under noted coach Raman Vijayan. He later played for South United FC and continued his football journey as a player-cum-coach with Sree Gajanana FC.
Stephen is survived by his wife, son, and daughter. His body is being kept at his residence behind Aiyappa Swamy Temple, Jalahalli, for final respects. The burial is scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Vidyaranyapuram Christian Cemetery.
The Karnataka State Football Association (KSFA), Bangalore District Football Association (BDFA), and Referees Board have expressed their deep condolences on the sudden and untimely demise of Stephen.