Steven Stoll And Jason Kelly Obituary, BRAYMER, Mo. — Steven Stoll, 37, a talented artist, gardener, and daylily hybridizer from Missouri, was killed alongside his partner, Jason Kelly, in a double homicide near Braymer, Missouri. Their deaths have left friends, fellow artists, and individuals of the daylily local area mourning the loss of two lives remembered for kindness, creativity, and joy.
Friends described Steven as a passionate and gifted individual whose love for art and plants touched a number of people throughout his life. He first became known to a number of through his work as an artist and his connection to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he introduced a friend to ceramics and assisted inspire a lifelong artistic journey.
According to a tribute shared by a close friend, Steven introduced him to ceramics during their time at the art school. That experience became a turning point, leading to years of creative work and eventually a shared studio. The two friends also spent time together as roommates, taking trips, exploring thrift stores, bowling, and supporting each other’s artistic interests.
Steven was remembered as someone who encouraged others and shared his passion freely. Friends said his influence continued through stories of creativity and healing, including the role art played in helping others discover moments of peace and purpose.
In addition to his artistic background, Steven became widely recognized in the daylily community as a rising hybridizer. Friends and fellow enthusiasts remembered his excitement for plants, his generosity in sharing knowledge, and his enthusiasm for developing new daylily varieties. He had recently registered his first daylily, marking an important milestone in his work with the flowers he loved.
Steven’s friends also remembered his personality, describing him as someone who brought humor, warmth, and originality into the lives of those around him. Those who knew him recalled his laughter, creativity, and ability to make connections with people through shared interests and friendship.
The circumstances surrounding Steven’s death and the death of Jason Kelly have prompted an outpouring of grief from those who knew the couple. According to tributes shared by friends, a relative of Jason has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, and the case remains ongoing. Authorities have not publicly verified additional details about the inquiry or motive.
Steven Stoll is being remembered for the beauty he created through his art, his work with daylilies, and the lasting impact he had on the people who knew him. Friends and people of the communities he was part of continue to honor his memory while offering condolences to everyone affected by the loss of Steven and Jason.
