

Born on Sunday, March 10, 1946, in Newton, North Carolina, Steve spent most of his life in Conover, where he and his beloved wife, Sylvia Kay Deal, built a home filled with love, faith, and family. In the final chapter of his life, Steve moved to Mebane, North Carolina, where he embraced new adventures, formed new friendships, and continued to make the most of every day.
Steve is now reunited in Heaven with the love of his life, Sylvia Kay Deal; his son, Jamon Deal; his parents, Nora Bell Deal and John Crawford Deal; and his brother, John Wayne Deal.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, Brad Deal and wife, Tammi; his daughter, Stephanie McClellan and husband, David; his grandchildren, Zack Deal and fiancée, Anissa, Keaton Deal, Crawford McClellan, Ali McClellan, and Bentley Deal; sister-in-law, Penny Bollinger and husband, George; along with many extended family members, dear friends, and countless lives he touched throughout the years.
Steve dedicated much of his life to serving others. He worked in the furniture industry in many distinguished roles most notably as Vice President of Manufacturing for La-Z-Boy Incorporated. He served Catawba County for 27 years as a reserve deputy.
Outside of his career, Steve was deeply involved in his community and was a faithful, active member of the St. Marks Lutheran Church throughout his life. He was also a proud member of Conover Lodge No. 709 for more than 52 years and had the honor of serving as Master of the Lodge in 1980. He found joy in woodworking and creating beautiful wood carvings, spending time on the golf course, and, in recent years, even playing Xbox. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved dog, Izzy, who was a faithful companion to both Steve and Kay for many years. In his final months, Steve especially enjoyed meeting new people, trying new experiences, and embracing each day with gratitude.
Above all else, Steve was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He sacrificed endlessly for those he loved, worked tirelessly to provide for his family, and lived a life marked by kindness, humility, faith, and service. His quiet strength, generous heart, and unwavering love leave behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Although our hearts are broken by his passing, we find peace in knowing that Steve is no longer suffering and has been joyfully reunited with Kay and the loved ones who went before him. His memory will live on in the stories we share, the values he instilled, and the love he gave so freely.
The family will receive friends on Monday, August 3, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Saint Mark's Lutheran Church in Claremont, North Carolina. A celebration of Steve's life will follow at 1:30 p.m. A private family burial will take place immediately following the service.
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