Steven Michael

1949 - 2024

Steven Michael

January 23, 1949 - June 10, 2024

Steven "Steve" D. Michael passed away peacefully on June 10, 2024, at the age of 75, at UNC Hospice House in Pittsboro, NC. He was the son of the late Herman and Judy Brewer Michael. Steve is survived by his loving wife, Loretta Blum Michael; two sons, Kevin Michael and Josh Michael; his daughter-in-law, Claire Michael; his four grandchildren, Zack, Brooke, Abigail, and Ethan; and also his sweet pup, Maisy. He is also survived by his brother, Fred Michael; sister, Jean Michael Brantley; sister-in-law, Muriel Blum Mendel (Richard); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Lora Michael; and grandson, Austin Michael.

Steve grew up in Winston Salem, NC, and graduated from RJ Reynolds High School. He received his BS degree from East Carolina University and was awarded his Juris Doctor from UNC School of Law in Chapel Hill, NC in 1975. His first job after law school was with Ransdell & Ransdell in Raleigh NC, after having clerked for William "Buck" Ransdell, Jr., whom he considered his mentor, during law school. From 1977-1980 he worked as an assistant DA in the Wake County District Attorney's office. He then practiced in Manteo, NC, until 1985, moving to Kitty Hawk, practicing with Sharp, Michael, Outten, & Graham, until he served as a Resident Superior Court Judge, First District 1991-92. He subsequently returned to practice with his law firm in Kitty Hawk for many years until his retirement in 2016. He practiced as a mediator and arbitrator part-time following his retirement from his firm.

Passionate about the integrity of his profession, Steve became an N.C.State Bar Councilor representing the First Judicial District in 1996 and served 3 successive terms. In 2004, he was elected Vice President, President-Elect in 2005, and in 2006, President of the NC State Bar. During his tenure, he served on various committees and later became Chair of the Disciplinary Hearing Commission. He also served on the Iolta Board of Trustees, the Chief Justice's Commission on Professionalism, and was a Delegate to the American Bar Association.

One of Steve's most defining traits was his honesty. He never shied away from speaking the truth. In a world where such candor is increasingly rare, Steve stood as a beacon for truth. He was an adamant believer in justice and fairness and sought to live by his beliefs.

Steve will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, intelligence, honesty, and kindness will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. A remembrance of Steve will be held at a later date.