Steven Byron Hellem

Born in Columbia, Missouri, to Charles and Edna Hellem, Steve’s childhood was marked by curiosity, ambition, and an early sense of humor that stayed with him for life. Even as a young boy, he found ways to shine. He achieved “Paper Boy of the Year” twice, complete with newspaper write-ups and ceremonies that made his parents proud (and, decades later, still made for a great family story).

Steve attended the University of Missouri, where he joined Marching Mizzou and true to form, made an unforgettable memory when his trombone slide flew off mid-performance during the Orange Bowl halftime show, while the cameras rolled for a national audience. It was a moment that became classic Steve, finding humor in the unexpected, rolling with it, and never taking himself too seriously.

After college, Steve was commissioned as a U.S. Army Military Police Officer, stationed at Fort Myer in Arlington, Virginia. Though proud to have served, Steve carried a quiet humility about his time in uniform, aware that so many others, including classmates and relatives, made sacrifices that weighed heavily on him. He rarely spoke about those years, but his respect for service, duty, and country was evident in how he lived.

Washington, D.C., quickly became home. It was where Steve’s ambition met opportunity, earning his law degree from George Mason University. Though he never practiced law, the experience was foundational for the career he built, which was one marked by entrepreneurship, leadership, and deep connections.

Steve did a brief stint at the Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association before joining the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as Director of Energy Policy. Through his work in DC in public affairs, Steve built relationships with talented colleagues who would become life-long friends and business partners. He went on to start his own company, the Hellem Company in Alexandria, VA. Following the Hellem Company, Steve partnered with trusted friends to form Strat@comm, a communications firm, which he eventually left to launch his own company, Navista, the Public Affairs Group.

Steve was known for his strategic vision, work ethic, and an unshakable belief in mentoring others. His greatest pride came from seeing the next generation grow, especially when his daughter Shannon and nephew Kellen joined him in the business world he loved.

But titles and accolades aside, Steve’s proudest role was being a dad to his four daughters: Shannon, Kim, Carrie, and Nell. He was the classic “Girl Dad,” equal parts listener, advisor, chauffeur, adventure buddy, and biggest fan. Whether it was Broadway shows with Kim, long car rides and deep talks with Shannon, Chesapeake crab feasts with Carrie, or the endless search for the perfect Cuban sandwich with Nell, Steve made each of his daughters feel seen, supported, and completely loved.

Steve was a lover of biographies, old movies, football Sundays (even when rooting for the Washington Commanders tested his patience), golf, history, and laughing at life’s absurdities. He cherished time at Lake George, NY, especially the Sagamore Hotel, where he and Mary honeymooned and where Carrie and Nell later insisted on more “honeymoons” as kids, a tradition that never lost its charm.

In his final months, Steve faced enormous challenges with quiet strength, supported every step of the way by his devoted wife of nearly 20 years, Mary Mahoney Hellem. His daughters were by his side with constant care and encouragement. His brother Jim and sister-in-law Susan traveled countless times from Georgia to stand by his side, along with his extended family and his beloved dog, Baker.

Steve is survived by his wife Mary; his daughters Shannon Hellem (Alexandria, VA), Kimberley Hellem and her husband Chris Snyder (Montclair, NJ), Carrie Hellem (Arlington, VA), and Nell Hellem (Washington, D.C.); his brother Jim Hellem and wife Susan (Cumming, GA); his nieces Lindsey Ruiz, her husband Nick Ratledge, and her daughter Gabrielle Ruiz (Suwanee, GA); Leighton Hellem-Williams and her husband Shaun Williams (Wollongong, NSW, Australia); and his large extended family—the Scott family, the Mahoney clan, and many more who were family by both blood and heart.

A funeral Service will be held at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Arlington, VA on Thursday, July 10th. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the Service at 11 a.m. Interment is scheduled for a later date.

Steve’s legacy is one of eternal optimism, humor, generosity, fierce loyalty, and authenticity. He taught those around him to stand tall, stay curious, love deeply, and never be afraid to stand out.

To honor Steve’s life, the family kindly requests donations to one of the organizations listed below, in lieu of flowers.