Obituary: Former Xbox Live policy director Stephen Toulouse

Microsoft's former director of Xbox Live policy and enforcement, Stephen Toulouse, has passed away. 

The news was confirmed by his brother Jeff Toulouse, who tweeted "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of our brother, Stephen Toulouse, this morning.  Beloved son, brother and uncle."

Toulouse, also known by his nickname "StepTo," worked at Microsoft for almost 18 years, and was committed to making Xbox Live an inclusive, safe space.

As director of Xbox Live policy and enforcement, he created and led a worldwide team to police the service and promote online safety, security, and positive conduct. 

Often seen working on the frontlines, Toulouse was one of Xbox's more public faces, and would speak at events and talk directly with members of the community to explain and clarify policy. 

He made some notable changes during his tenure, including allowing Xbox Live members to express their sexual orientation in their Gamertags and profiles -- a move that saw The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation praise Toulouse for his work in combating homophobia. 

Toulouse eventually left Microsoft in 2012, and went on to have stints at a variety of companies including HackerOne, HBO, and EA.