09/10/2025
Champian, I am so sorry to hear this news. You were the apple of your dad's eyes. I know what you're going through with this difficult decision you had to make. I also had to do the same with my mom (kidney disease), and I'm still devastated 12 years later. May you and your family find comfort and strength during this period in time. 😢🙏🏾💔
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that my father, Stephen Bruce Fulton, passed away Thursday September 4, 2025 after medical complications following a cardiac procedure. My father suffered from kidney disease, and at the end of his life, from heart failure. After all efforts to help him failed, it was decided to withdraw all life supporting measures. My mother Susan was by his side, holding his hand the whole time. After an hour and 17 minutes, he passed away, peacefully. It was Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 11:52 pm central time.
My cousin Stephanie was also by his side.
Stephen was not only my father, but my music and business partner, my chauffeur, my mentor, and my best friend, for almost 40 years. We traveled the world performing and recorded numerous albums together. The last time we shared the stage was in Oklahoma City in August of 2024, and the last time he attended a concert of mine was at this year’s Jazz in June performance in Norman OK.
In his 71 years he touched many lives both musically and personally. He was a dedicated musician, a loving father, and he was married to my Mom Susan for 53 years; they were high school sweethearts.
Some of the happiest times in his life were being on the road and making music. He loved our longtime band: Fukushi Tainaka on drums and Hide Tanaka on bass. And he loved performing for you.
I will miss him everyday.
There are currently no services planned, but I will post the formal obituary soon.
Thank you for your support and love.
-c
