Stephen David Lease

Stephen David Lease, 67, of Fort Smith, passed unexpectedly November 7, 2016. Born August 1, 1949, to George F. and Louise Lease in Fort Smith, Arkansas, he lived almost his entire life in Fort Smith except when away for school and military service. Completing these, he returned home to serve his city, enjoying a distinguished career in public service and higher education in Fort Smith.

After completing a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Arkansas (Fayetteville) in 1976, Steve Lease worked on several projects for the city of Fort Smith, and in 1978 was appointed City Administrator, a position he held until 1981. In the following eight years, he was Assistant Vice President and Corporate Manager of Project Development for Beverly Enterprises of Fort Smith and Pasadena, CA. He then embarked on his career in higher education, serving as Dean of Workforce Development, Associate Vice President for Government Relations and Associate Vice Chancellor for Workforce Development, for Westark Community College that later became the University of Arkansas, Fort Smith, until 2005. He then accepted the role of Director of Workforce Training for the Arkansas Association of Two-year Colleges, a position he held until his retirement in 2013. In 1989, Steve Lease was elected as Ward 4 City Director in Fort Smith, a government position he held for eight years. He was a committed public servant and received several awards and commendations for his community service, in addition to serving on numerous non-profit community boards.

In 1969, Steve Lease completed his training for the United States Navy Reserve at the Great Lakes Naval Station, being honorably discharged in 1975. A member of the American Legion Post 31, he served at several locations, including Guantanamo Bay, Cuba from 1971 to 1972.

Steve Lease was a man of vast reading and few words. His love for family and community was utterly unbounded. He was always the strongest advocate for those he managed, and his limitless compassion for his fellow man and woman was mirrored in the numerous charities he faithfully supported over many years. His love for fishing reflected the peaceful demeanor that threaded his life.

Steve Lease was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 30 years, Martha Kathleen Lease, and survived by his only daughter, Christine Lease Kruse and her husband Mark of Durham NC; grandchildren, Annabel Kathleen and Charlie Marshall for whom he was their beloved “pappy”; only brother, George Lease and his wife Kathy; and several nieces, nephews, and in-laws. He also leaves behind close friends who loved him greatly, and the many people whose lives he touched through an unwavering kindness, empathy, and respect, that the rest of us can only strive to achieve. He will live on in the hearts and memories of so many cherished friends and family.