Reverend Eugene F. Steadman

Rev. Eugene Franklin Steadman, born on March 15, 1945, in Wagener, South Carolina, was the fourth of eight children born to the late Henry and Earlean Steadman. His earthly journey concluded on April 13, 2025, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched.

Rev. Steadman dedicated his life to the service of the Kingdom of God, embodying the spirit of Joshua 24:15: “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” At an early age, he joined Chalk Hill Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher, nurturing the faith of countless individuals.

He married the love of his life, Betty Lou Jenkins, on April 13, 1970, in Columbia, South Carolina.

His divine calling to preach began in December 1976, leading to his licensing by Chalk Hill Baptist Church in February 1977. After three years of dedicated service as an associate minister, he was ordained by the Hebron Baptist Association in July 1980. He also served as Interim Pastor at Chalk Hill Baptist Church in 1977. In 1982, he was called to pastor Rock Hill Baptist Church in Ridgeway, South Carolina, where he served until October 1992. His ministry continued in the Kirkwood Community of Camden, South Carolina, as the pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church until September 2018.

In addition to his spiritual leadership, Rev. Steadman worked as an engineering assistant at Johnson Controls in Columbia, SC, for 23 years until his retirement in 1997. Known as a "Preacher of Preachers," Rev. Steadman made significant contributions to the Mount Moriah Baptist Association, serving as Moderator, Second Vice Moderator, Dean of the Congress of Christian Education, and Chairman of the Steering Committee. His leadership fostered the ordination of several ministers and the completion of the Mount Moriah Baptist Association Center.

Rev. Steadman was a proud graduate of A.L. Corbett High School, class of 1963. He earned his Bachelor of Theology degree from Morris College in 1984 and completed his Clinical Pastoral Education through the South Carolina Department of Mental Health in 2000. He served with distinction in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967, receiving an honorable discharge after his tour in Korea. His commitment to service extended into his professional life at Johnson Controls, where he worked diligently until retirement.

Rev. Steadman is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Betty J. Steadman, and four children, Welton (Angie) Bush of Atlanta, GA, Rev. Ronda Steadman-Maurice (Rony) of Columbia, SC, Rev. Eugene F. Steadman II, and Deacon Andre F. (Melissa) Steadman of both of Charlotte, NC.  He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren, Rhonda Nikole Bush, Rodney Breon Bush Jr., Jerome Odom, Dyshandra Hucks, Madison Maurice, Angelina Maurice, Natalie Maurice, Harper Steadman, and Aubree Steadman. He is survived by siblings, sister, Eartha (Clarence Sr.) James, brothers, Rev. Henry (Peggy) Steadman III, Thomas (Cathy) Steadman, sister-in-law, Eurlee Steadman, and a host of in-laws, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Rodney Bush, brothers, Sammy Steadman, Glasco (Mary) Steadman, Lee Vince (Jorie) Steadman, and sister, Henry Mae (Lindberg) Pue.

Rev. Steadman's legacy is one of unwavering love, dedication to teaching and preaching God's word, and a deep passion for fishing and spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his profound impact on the lives of those he served and loved.

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