Thomas Bill Stevenson  Sr.,  affectionately  known  as "Pootney," was born  in Baltimore, Maryland, on July 18, 1934, to Ella Mae Timmons and Otto Stevenson. He passed away peacefully after a brief illness on October 16, 2024, at the age of 90.
Pootney  attended  Baltimore City  Schools,  where he completed  his high  school education.  After graduation,  he joined  the United  Slates Air Force,  serving  his country until his honorable discharge.
In  1957,  Pootney  married  Margert Stevenson,  and  they  welcomed  two  children, Thomas Bill Stevenson Jr. and Beyonca Day. In the 60's, Pootney moved to New York  City,  where he met and  married  Nancy  Stevenson.  Their union  brought forth one son, Thomas Bill Stevenson 111.
Throughout his life,  Pootney  worked  in  various roles,  including  police officer, armed  security  guard,  and  custodian  supervisor al PS 178,  where he was a beloved  figure among  his coworkers and  friends.  His warm personality  and infectious humor made him a joy to be around.
Known for his love of Pepsi, Pootney was happiest surrounded by family, where he took  on  the role of the family  jokester.  He loved  cooking,  especially  his homemade beefaroni and  sweet potato  pies,  and  was a meticulous cleaner who could  never stand  a spot on  the floor.  He had  a passion  for walking  and  could often be seen either on foot or catching the bus to his next destination.
Pootney was also a dedicated volunteer in his community and at the schools his children attended, where he was known as the friendly "Mr. Steve" with a strong handshake that people cherished. In 1993, he returned to Baltimore, finding joy in spending  time with  friends at the VA hospital and  Lexington  Market,  where he was well known for selling oils.
In 2014, Pootney married Phyllis Dawes, sharing his later years with her. His spirit, humor,  and  dedication  to  his family  and  community  will be deeply  missed  but fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.
He leaves to carry on his legacy, his children, Thomas, Bill Stevenson Jr., Beyonca Day, Thomas Bill Stevenson 3rd (Tonja); grandchildren, Chaka Nicole Stevenson, Tymaqua Stevenson,  Yakem Day,  Sean  Raekwon  Stevenson,  and  Jaheim,  Shabaz Stevenson; great grandchildren; siblings,  William Donaldson,  Fred  Donaldson, Jeannette Jackson,  Shon'Ta Timmons (Marcellus) and  Noni Walton  (John); favorite cousins, Jean Jones, Juliet Sanford; host of cousins, nieces and nephews.