Mr. Orestes Steed

Orestes Damerio Steed born on March 2, 1956 to Reverend Matthew Steed and Velma Branch Steed, was a man whose heart was as expansive as his curiosity about the world. A devoted family man, Orestes Steed was a loving son, brother, and the best “Uncle “O” to his nieces and nephews. His zest for life was contagious, and he had an innate ability to make a friend out of every stranger he met. Orestes accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of Phipps Chapel Baptist Church, where his faith grounded him throughout his life. He graduated from Vance Senior High School in 1974 and went on to attend North Carolina Central University, where he continued to explore his passions. Beyond his education, Orestes had a rich and diverse life filled with creativity and connection. He was a skilled percussionist, playing the Djembe and thumb piano with the West African Percussion, Drum, and Dance Troupe. He loved to travel, immersing himself in different cultures, meeting people, and leaving a positive impact on every room he entered. A man of many interests, Orestes was fascinated by history and technology. He enjoyed exploring these topics in conversation and shared his knowledge and insights with everyone he met. He had a love for music that spanned genres, from Anthony Hamilton to DJ Black Coffee, Tupac, Sounds of West Africa, Steel Pulse, and beyond. Photography was another of Orestes’ passions, whether it was developing film, capturing moments through digital photography, or exploring the sky with drone footage. He also believed deeply in wellness and yoga, and was always striving to live a healthy and balanced life. Orestes had a love for the simple pleasures—spicy cocktails, decadent desserts, and good company. He will be remembered not only for his deep intellect and artistic spirit but also for his unwavering kindness, his curiosity, and the joy he brought to those around him. He is survived by his daughter Olivia Steed, his life Partner, Colette Thurston, his mother, Velma Steed, his sister, Shyvonne Steed-Foster(Ralph), his brothers Sonjario Steed, Victor Steed (Sharon) and Ellery Steed. He also leaves to mourn a host of nieces and nephews:Courtney Barfield, Jessica Steed, Victor Steed Jr., Jabari Matthews, Sonjario Steed Jr., Sierra Daniels, Matthew Foster, and Mark Foster. Preceding him in death is his father Reverend Matthew Steed. Orestes will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A memorial service will be held May 17, 2025, 12:00-1:30 PM at North Star Church of the Arts, 220 Geer Street Durham, N.C. 27701, where we will come together to honor and celebrate the life of a truly remarkable man. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the North Star Church of the Arts to honor Orestes Damerio Steed’s memory. https://www.northstardurham.com/support

Mr. Orestes Steed

March 2, 1956 - April 7, 2025