Steven Anthony Benezue

Steven Anthony Benezue, a man of profound creativity and gentle wisdom, passed away unexpectedly on Friday May 2, 2025, at the age of 65 in Brevard, NC. Born on September 24, 1959, in the Panama Canal Zone, he spent his life enriching the world with art and inspiration, leaving a mark on all who knew him.

Steven's journey through life was one of exploration and artistic expression. Having earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture from the University of Texas at Arlington, he continued to expand his horizons by obtaining Master of Fine Arts degrees in both Ceramics and Photography from Texas Women's University in Denton, TX. These accomplishments laid the foundation for a distinguished career that included serving as a Gallery Director at Northlake College in Irving, Texas, and currently as an Art History professor at Brevard College.

His passion for art extended beyond the classroom. Steven was an accomplished artist, known for his sculpting, pottery throwing, and digital art creations. His work garnered numerous accolades and awards, including the prestigious Judye Williams Award, 2015 Art In The Metroplex Fort Worth TX, Honorable Mention, Art Connection 2013 Irving Arts Center, Purchase Award, Feats of Clay XIII, Lincoln Arts Center, Lincoln CA 2000, Voertman Show, 2000, 1999, and 1998 at Texas Women’s University in Denton, TX, Academic Scholarship Award, Texas Women’s University, Denton TX 1999, Departmental Achievement Award, Tarrant County College, Hurst TX 1996, and 26th Annual Art Exhibition, Tarrant County College Northeast, Hurst, TX 1995.

A man of deep faith, Steven was a devoted member of the Catholic Church, finding solace and inspiration in his spiritual beliefs. His interests were as diverse as his talent. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors, whether it was camping under the stars, hiking scenic trails, or tending to his garden.

Throughout his life, Steven was surrounded by love and companionship. He shared 12 wonderful years with his life partner, Tracy Parlier, of Brevard, NC. He is also survived by his father, Lynn Anthony (Nita) Benezue of Athens, TX; his mother, Faye Benezue of Hurst, TX; his brother, Jeffery Paul (Rebecca) Benezue of Krum, TX; his sister, Sarah Lynn Benezue of Eustace, TX. Steven is survived by his honorary daughter and her husband, Courtney and Justin Younce, and honorary grandchildren, Dylan Rossi and Lillian Saylor. He is also survived by numerous extended family members and close friends who will miss him dearly.

Steven's legacy is one of artistic brilliance, gentle kindness, and an unwavering dedication to fostering beauty and understanding in the world. Steven's sense of humor and creativity will be cherished in memory by all his family and friends.

Services honoring Steven's life will begin with a visitation on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Nicholson Funeral Home in Statesville, NC. A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, at St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church with Father Bernard Oleru officiating. Steven will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Friends of the Fine Arts, Alumni Affairs & Development, 1 Brevard College Drive, Brevard, NC 28712 or online by clicking here.

Nicholson Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements for Steven Benezue.