Stephen Tabeling III, a beloved family man, retired Baltimore Police lieutenant, dedicated public servant, author, substitute teacher, and devoted community member, passed away peacefully at his home in the Pickersgill Retirement Community on April 3, 2026, at the age of 96.

Born in 1929 in Baltimore, Maryland, Steve was the son of the late Stephen B. Tabeling Jr. and Catherine E. Tabeling (née Noonan). He grew up in Baltimore and proudly served the city as a member of the Baltimore Police Department for 25 years, rising to the rank of lieutenant. His assignments included narcotics, and homicide units. He also served as a Police Academy instructor, mentoring countless officers with his experience, integrity, and commitment to the rule of law.

After retiring from the BPD, Steve continued a remarkable life of service. He served as Chief of Police in Salisbury, Maryland, for three years and as Director of Security at Johns Hopkins Hospital for approximately seven years. He later served as Director of Public Safety at Loyola University, worked as a consultant for Johns Hopkins Hospital and the Baltimore Police Department, operated as a private detective, and returned briefly to the BPD in 2000 to assess the homicide unit and teach at the academy.

Well into his 90s, Steve remained active and inspiring as a substitute teacher. Students admired his no-nonsense wisdom, captivating stories from his law enforcement career, and his single steadfast classroom rule: respect for others. As a published author he shared his experiences and insights in books such as You Can't Stop Murder: Truths About Policing in Baltimore and Beyond and Charm City Cop: The Life and Times of Steve Tabeling.

Steve was known for his straightforward manner, deep sense of duty, resilience, strong moral compass, and lifelong passion for mentoring the next generation. He lived a full life committed to public service and making his community better.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Dolores Margaret "Honey" Tabeling (née Varley).parents, Stephen B. Tabeling Jr. and Catherine E. Tabeling (née Noonan); his brothers Robert J. Tabeling and William J. Tabeling; and his sister Nora Heller.

He is survived by his 4 children, Sondra A. Tabeling, Stephen B. Tabeling IV (and wife Dorothy), Honey D. Constantine (and husband Michael), and Patti Tabeling; 11 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren ; his sisters Elvie Tabeling and Beverly O'Haren; many nieces, nephews, extended family members, colleagues, and friends who will cherish his stories, integrity, and quiet strength.

Arrangements are under the care of Ruck Funeral Homes. Viewing will be held at 1050 York Road, Towson, Maryland, on Saturday, April 11th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 12th from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, April 13th at 10:00 a.m. at Christ The King Catholic Church, 1102 Hart Rd, Towson, MD, followed by interment at Garden of Faith Cemetery, 5598 Trumps Mill Rd, Baltimore, MD 21206.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Steve's memory to the Baltimore Retired Police Association, c/o Kathy (Cathy) Conrad, 410-803-2293 (or mailed to Kathy Conrad, P.O. Box 935, Bel Air, MD 21014).

Steve's lifelong dedication to service — from the streets of Baltimore and hospital security to the university campus and the classroom — touched countless lives. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.