Steven D. Doolittle, known affectionately as Steve to his friends and colleagues, passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025, in Paducah, Kentucky, at the age of 61. He was Born on November 22, 1963, in Racine, Wisconsin, to Dean Elgie Doolittle and Bernarda M. Klym Doolittle.
Steve's academic journey led him to achieve a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Southern Illinois University, a testament to his dedication to understanding and improving the mechanisms of governance. His education laid the groundwork for what would become a distinguished career in public service.
In 1990, Steve began his tenure with the city of Paducah as the Director of Building Inspections. His natural leadership abilities and his passion for community development quickly became evident. He soon took on the responsibility of overseeing the planning department, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to the city's growth and prosperity.
Steve's career was marked by a series of advancements, reflecting his expertise and the trust placed in him by his peers and the community. He served as McCracken County Administrator, where he was known for his pragmatic approach to administration and his ability to navigate complex challenges with grace and efficiency.
His final role as McCracken County Deputy Judge Executive was a role he cherished deeply. In this capacity, Steve worked tirelessly to ensure the county's operations were conducted with transparency and accountability, always with the citizens' best interests at heart.
Throughout his long career, Steve was deeply involved in various associations, contributing his knowledge and experience to better the field of public administration. His colleagues respected him for his insight and his unwavering dedication to public service.
Steve's legacy is one of unwavering dedication to his community and the betterment of public administration. His work has left an indelible mark on the city of Paducah and McCracken County, and his influence will be felt for many years to come.
Steve is survived by his parents, Dean E. and Bernarda M. Klym Doolittle of Dickinson, ND; a daughter, Emily Renee Doolittle of Paducah; a son, Andrew James Doolittle of Paducah; one grandchild, Whit William Assaad of Paducah; his life partner, Monica Morgan Bilak of Paducah; his two sisters, Karen (Brent) Braaten of Bismarck, ND, and Linda Peterson of Bismarck, ND along with several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Steve’s life will be at 6:00 PM Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah. Visitation will be from 4:00-6:00 PM Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah.
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
