On October 30, 2025, my father Carl Stives was unexpectedly called home. In his 58 short years, many people have had the opportunity to get to know my Dad. Since his passing, many people have told me how he had made a lasting impression on them. My father touched the lives of so many with his music, kindness, humor, and warmth. With this in mind, many people have been asking how they can help. Due to his unexpected passing, we have many unforeseen expenses. If you feel led to bless us, any amount would make a difference to help cover funeral expenses and give my father a proper goodbye.

Thank you for your love, prayers, and support through this difficult time.

Obituary:

Carl N. Stives, 58, of Whiting, passed away unexpectedly at Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus, Lakewood, on Thursday, October 30, 2025. Carl was born and raised in Somerville. In 1979, the family moved to Howell Township. He lived in Howell and throughout Ocean County before settling in Whiting in 2020.

Carl was a member of For His Praise Ministries in Howell. As a young boy, he discovered his lifelong team and America’s team, the Dallas Cowboys, and remained a steadfast, die-hard fan ever since. Carl had an adventurous spirit and a love for travel, whether it was camping in the great outdoors or relaxing in tropical destinations. The beach was his favorite place to escape and unwind. Yet his passion was for music. From an early age, he knew he was meant to be a musician. Gifted with an incredible ear and natural talent, he could pick up nearly any instrument and play it with ease. That talent and dedication allowed him to fulfill his

dream of becoming a full-time musician. For more than twenty years, Carl performed with Shorty Long and the Jersey Horns, playing drums, percussion, trombone, and bass guitar, bringing his music to life from Boston to Key West and at countless venues along the Jersey Shore.

Carl was predeceased by his parents, J. Edward and Sandra Stives, and his sister, Sondra D. Stives. He is survived by his wife, Darlene Stives; his son, Troy Stives, Sr. and his wife, Amanda; a grandson, Troy “TJ” Stives, Jr.; siblings, Joseph Stives, Jr., Larry Stives, his twin sister, Carla Stives, Amy Stives and Kim Stives; his nieces and nephews, Tiffany, Kimber-Joy, Monique, and Travis and his wife, Deandra; and a great niece, Loghan; Troy’s mother, Lisa Boiko; and countless best, dear, and close friends.

A visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia

Road (Route 524), Freehold Township, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, with his funeral service to follow at 4:00 PM. Interment will be private. For those who desire, memorial contributions may be made to his son, Troy, for expenses.

For information, directions or condolence messages to the family, visit

www.claytonfuneralhome.com.