Stephen Rankin '67

Stephen “Steve” Rankin of Norfolk, Virginia, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2026. Steve was born in Portland, Maine, on April 2, 1949, to the late Royce and Kathleen Rankin. A graduate of Fryeburg Academy and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Steve attended Ohio State University and received a master's degree from Old Dominion University.

He spent most of his life in Virginia and taught more than thirty years for Chesapeake Public Schools. While employed in Chesapeake, he taught at Deep Creek Junior High, Crestwood Junior High, and Indian River High School. At Indian River he taught math and physics. Steve was a much-loved instructor, was named a Teacher of the Year, and was a favorite of students. Steve was an avid tennis player and held many leadership positions within local tennis groups.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Jaime Kistner and husband Jeff; sons, Michael Hiney and wife Karen and Jason Hiney and wife Reshanna; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. His brother Royce Rankin and wife Cynthia; and longtime friend, Bunny May also survive him. Steve leaves numerous students who were captivated by his intellect, his sense of humor, and his wit.

A funeral service will be held at 2 PM Friday, May 29, 2026 at Sturtevant Funeral Home, Portsmouth Blvd. Chapel. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday evening from 6 – 7:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180.

Condolences may be made to the family online at www.SturtevantFuneralHome.com