Search by Name

Search by Name

Steve Mains Obituary

Steve Payton Mains HICKORY Steve Payton Mains, 65, of Hickory, passed away Friday, Feb. 1, 2013, at Catawba Regional Hospice in Newton. He was born Aug. 5, 1947, in Watauga County, to the late RJ and Lucille Potter Mains. Steve was of the Evangelical Methodist faith, a member of the Board of Directors, and past chairman of St. Stephens Fire Department. He retired as the district Office Manager for the Catawba County Veterans Services Sept. 1, 2009, after 35 years and nine months of service. He was a Credited Veteran Service Representative for NC Veterans Affairs, and a board member for friends of NC Veterans Nursing Home. Steve was a 42-year member of American Legion Post 48 and held numerous offices at the state level for American Legion. He was president of Hickory American Legion Fair and past president of the NC Fair Association. One of Steve's greatest joys was the day the fair would open. He enjoyed standing at the entrance gate and seeing the smiles on children's faces, not to mention any opportunity he had to spend with his family and grandchildren was always a treat. Steve also enjoyed all the wonderful boating trips on Lake Norman. Steve was presented with many awards and honors. A few of those include the NC Order of the Longleaf Pine Award presented to him by James Hunt and the Holmes McBride Award presented by the NC Fair Association in 2011. In 1970 he was recognized for outstanding community achievement of Vietnam Veterans by President Jimmy Carter. Steve was also appointed by Bev Perdue to serve on the NC Veterans Commission. Survivors include his wife, Linda Mains, of the home; a daughter, Alyson Mains and fiance', David Bruce, and her son, Trace McCoy, of Hickory; a stepdaughter, Jennifer DeLa Jara and husband, Jorge, and their children, Julian and Sofia, of Charlotte; his stepmother, Thelma Mains, of Zionville; a sister, Sebrina Mains, of Zionville; a granddaughter, Courtney Ellington, of Gastonia; a great-grandson, Marley Fischer, of Gastonia; a special nephew, Bruce Abernethy, of Rutherford College; special friends, Bobby McLamb and Edie Woods, both of Raleigh; and many other special friends at Long Island Marina of Catawba. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6, at the Hickory American Legion Fairground, with Pastor Hugh Whitfield officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Memorials may be sent to Catawba Regional Hospice, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658 or Tri-City Baptist Church, 1409 NC Hwy 16 Conover, NC 28613. The family would like to offer a special thank you to the Hickory American Legion Fair Board and the Hickory American Legion, Post 48. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.bass-smith funeralhome.com. Bass-Smith Funeral Home is serving the family of Steve Payton Mains.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Hickory Daily Record on Feb. 3, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Steve Mains

Not sure what to say?





Raymond Riddle

January 28, 2024

Steve was a dedicated Veteran Service Officer. Steve dedicated his life to assisting and helping those in need. He was a good friend to all those that worked along side of him with the NCDVA . Our prayers are with his wife Linda and family .

Richard L. Morris

January 28, 2023

I believe Steve was one of the best friends a military veteran could have in this county. He possessed a happy heart and a great smile that encouraged those around him. A friend in DEED and we who knew him are blessed. Richard Morris

Rayriddle

January 28, 2022

A very good man and a Veterans friend. Respectfully Ray

Annette B McKinney

January 28, 2020

Wow, it is so hard to believe you are gone even today. I miss your contagious smile and kind heart. I am sure you and Rick "Biscuit", my late husband are having a huge fair in Heaven. Love to you and your family. Annette

Richard Morris

January 28, 2019

This is not original by me and I do not know who the author is. BUT, it sums up in a short fashion what Steve meant to each person who came to know him. It is said that it only takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them BUT an entire LIFETIME to forget them. We shall never forget STEVE.

Nick & Giovanna Brookshire

February 14, 2013

We were so sorry to hear about the passing of your father, Kim Maines-Houston. We love you & Scott dearly & are so very sorry for your loss. We are here for you & will pray for you & your family.

Connie Bracewell

February 12, 2013

My husband Rusty and I belatedly learned this evening that Steve passed away last week. We're so sorry we found out after the fact. We're currently at our second home in Arizona, but Rusty would have gone back to NC for the memorial service at the fairgrounds if we had heard in time. RIP, Steve--you were a peach. Thank you for your years of friendship and service to thousands of veterans in western North Carolina. -The Bracewell Family, U.S.A.F.

rusty bracewell

February 12, 2013

I will surely miss him

Roland Scott

February 10, 2013

A good man. Steve was such an inspiration to the baseball players at POST 48 and a friend to all that knew him.

Keith Shook

February 8, 2013

Sorry for your loss! He was the BEST at helping Veterans.

alex kent

February 7, 2013

so sorry for your loss kim. didn't personally know your father, but from what i've heard from others, he was an outstanding person. peace

Christina Piper

February 7, 2013

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss Kim. you and your family will be in my prayers and thoughts through this difficult time. God Bless

Billy & Donna Bowling

February 6, 2013

Linda, just learned of Steve's passing today. I'm sorry for your loss. If you need company or to talk please walk on over. You are in our thoughts during this time.

crystal baumgarner

February 6, 2013

Kim I am so sorry for your loss my heart goes out to you in this time!

Kim S

February 6, 2013

Linda, Allyson and family -- so sorry for the loss of such a great and wonderful man. He was a treasure to all and all loved him. He was an great assist to all veterans who got the opporutnity to have his help. He was a wonderful Hickory Fair Grounds manager all those years. He was the delight of all who attended the fair and loved seeing those there. i am so thankful i got to see steve on thursday and hold his hand. He was a great man, husband, father and more.
Many sympathies to the Mains family.

Sylvia Willis

February 6, 2013

Dearest Kim. You have our deepest sympathies for the loss of your father. A very big-hearted man, he must have been very proud of the open-minded, well spoken, and thoughtful person you have become.

Jerry Hatfiield

February 6, 2013

To the family of Steve Mains, no words can convey the wonderful life of this man, I started with Steve in Hickory and remember a "fantastic" trainer and mentor. My prayers are with his family, he will not be forgotten, his memory will always be with you and us. We have been blessed to have known him! The shock of his passing will pass, but the great times and memories will last forever!! Oh, the stories we can tell!! Jerry and Pat Hatfield

Jamie Lee

February 6, 2013

Alyson & Trace, What a great Daddy and Grandfather he was!!! Remember the good times as I feel sure he would want you to keep on smiling and being happy. He touched a TON of people in his lifetime. May he rest in peace and I pray that God will comfort you during this difficult time. Always, Jamie, Chris, Mallory & Mariah

Shane & Rita Reece

February 6, 2013

So sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Judy Teague Valentine

February 5, 2013

Linda, I am so sorry for your loss.

Gary Bumgarner

February 5, 2013

Mains Family: Extending deepest sympathy for you in your loss. And hoping, too, that comfort and peace may come to you.
Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer. Gary & Angelique Bumgarner

Don Greene

February 5, 2013

Kim and Alyson, so sorry for your loss.

Monica Brown

February 4, 2013

I have known Kim, Bobbie & Steve Mains since Kim & I were in middle school, but have lost touch since moving away. I was deeply saddened to hear from my parents about the loss of your father, Kim & will pray for your family. I know that Steve did so much for so many & will be missed. God bless you & your family, Kim.

February 4, 2013

Prayers & strength through this difficult time. Love & Blessings for the entire Mains family.
Jeff, Teresa & Hunter Killian

Kimberly Mains Euresti

February 4, 2013

Thinking of all of you at this very sad and difficult time. I have wonderful memories of visiting Steve,Uncle R J and the family, in beautiful North Carolina.
With love....

Mary Beth Alton

February 4, 2013

So sorry for your loss.

February 4, 2013

Steve will always be in my heart and memories.With Sympathy, James Moore Dist. 7 Commander

Mark and Sandy Alexander

February 4, 2013

Linda and family, Mark and I send our deepest sympathy to you in this time of loss. I cannot begin to tell you what a fine person Steve was to us. We always displayed at the Fair and enjoyed being a part of that because of Steve and all the wonderful people with the American Legion. May the Lord wrap his loving arms around you and your family in this time of need. I am sure I never saw Steve without a smile on his face, he was such an inspiration to so many people, he will be dearly missed. (J&S Satellite)

john blake

February 4, 2013

Another friend and Brother gone too soon. Thoughts and prayers for the family

Lisa Childers

February 4, 2013

Kim I am so sorry for the loss of your father. He will be greatly missed. Love u girl.

Amanda Brack

February 4, 2013

Kim, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry to hear about your loss.

Martin Williams

February 4, 2013

Dear Linda and Family, I was greatly saddened to learn of Steve's death. I worked with him in Hickory ( Mar. 1987 to Apr. 1990). He was a good friend and mentor.He really cared for veterans.Steve and all of you are in my prayers. Sincerely, Marty Williams

Danna Perkins

February 4, 2013

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Annette Bowman

February 4, 2013

Linda, Alyson, and family: Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Steve was the most caring and giving person I know of. He will truly be missed. Love you all.
Annette Bowman
Chad McKinney

Deborah Coley

February 4, 2013

Linda and family, just wanted you to know that Steve was a jewel in my book while he worked with NCDVA. He really cared for veterans and their dependents. He will be grealy missed by all of us here at the State Service Office.

Donna Hager

February 4, 2013

Alyson, You and Trace are in my prayers.

John. & Betty Eggers

February 4, 2013

Dear Family I grew up with Steve but my parents were close to his parents. My dad and mother was Brandon & Rachel Eggers. Steve was very big help in me choosing my field I am in. Our prayers are with you in the next few days ahead. And that God will always be close in your time of need

Richard Morris

February 3, 2013

My deepest sympathy to the family in your loss. Steve will be greatly missed by you and by his many friends. The military veterans of the area have lost a sincere and dedicated advocate. Steve's commitment to the veteran's seemed to have no limits, as did his work with the members of Post 48 and the Legion Fair. I counted him as a friend from the time I met him in 1973. My life was blessed by his friendship, his big smile, and by his sincere willingness to be of help to others. My thoughts and prayers are with you and may God's presence give you peace and strength for this difficult time.

Kathy Brady

February 3, 2013

Alyson, Trace and the entire family, you all are in my thoughts and prayers. Steve will always be remembered by all that knew him and the many contributions he made to our community.

Marvin Clark

February 3, 2013

Linda: I just learned of Steves passing. I will never forget how much he helped my Mom and Dad. God bless you. What a fine man he was. My sincere sympathy

February 3, 2013

So sorry to hear that Jennifer lost someone important in her life. My prayers are with your family during this time. Susan Raye (friend from the Charlotte Church)

Coleen Howery

February 3, 2013

So very sorry to hear of Steve's passing. I worked with Steve for many years through Catawba County , he was a great guy and will truly be missed!

david and helen powell

February 3, 2013

we r turly sorry for your loss are prayer and thoughts r with the family of steve mains he will be turly miss..

Shannon Bolick

February 3, 2013

Alyson you, Trace and Courtney are in my thoughts and prayers. I remember calling your dad Pillsbury because he called me dough baby. He was the life of the party when your parents used to come to the house or we were at yours. He will be missed by all. My heart breaks for you baby girl and if I can do anything to help you call me even if it is just to cry together. Love you.

Kristie Kirk

February 3, 2013

I pray that you allow God's comfort into your hearts now and in the coming days. Please let me know if I can be of help in any way.

Sharon Hahn Lasky

February 3, 2013

My father was a WWll vet. I remember going to the VA office for help and guidance, I was so lucky that Mr Mains was the one to assist. I can't find the words to express how respectful, kind and caring he was to my aging father. The family is in my thoughts and prayers

Lucy Brennan

February 3, 2013

Kim, I am so sorry for your loss.

Jeff & Sonja Winebarger

February 3, 2013

Steve will truly be missed. A very special man. We always enjoyed talking with him & Linda. My husband and I share our condolences to the family.

Steve McCurry

February 3, 2013

Steve was a great friend and a wonderful co-worker. We have lost someone who truly cared about veterans. Our prayers are with Linda and the family during this time. May GOD rest his soul and richly bless the family.
Steve and Wilma McCurry

Erin Duckworth

February 3, 2013

Continued prayers to you, Alyson, and family in the days ahead. Your dad always had a smile on his face:-) So very sorry. Thinking of you.

February 3, 2013

Linda My heart goes out to you and the family. He was one of my favorite people. I am so sorry that I did not get down to see all of you. Please stay in touch. I love you all. Peggy Mains

February 3, 2013

My deepest sympathy to your family. I met Steve through his work at the Veteran's Administration. The work he did on mynfather's case changed my life! He helped me get a scholarship to graduate school. I am now a school counselor and love my job! I credit Steve for helping get me where I am today! My life has truly been blessed meeting him!

Ray & Thresia Riddle

February 3, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Ray & Thresia Riddle

February 3, 2013

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

February 3, 2013

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Showing 1 - 55 of 55 results

Make a Donation
in Steve Mains's name

Memorial Events
for Steve Mains

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Steve's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Steve Mains's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more