September 11, 2022, 71, Institute –

Steva Hardy Bledsoe passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 11, 2022, surrounded by her family. She was a dearly loved wife, mother, and Nana. Born November 13, 1950, she was the first child of Bill and Melba Hardy of Institute, NC. She was a proud alumnus of Greensboro College and, like her mother, was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority. She spent thirty-two years teaching elementary school children in the State of NC. Her lasting impression in the classroom was evident in outings where she was constantly recognized by former students.

As a lifelong member of Institute United Methodist Church, Steva held many roles. She was Past President and Treasurer of the United Methodist Women and currently served as the Chairman of the Finance Committee and Children’s Time Leader. She was a proud member of the congregation and strived to serve her community through her church membership. Friends and neighbors were always at the front of her mind as she prepared and delivered countless meals to those who were sick or going through hardships. Steva loved her church family and will be deeply missed by the congregations in Institute and Elkin.

She believed in God’s plan for her life, and after meeting Randy in High Point, they embarked on a 41-year marriage and journey together. Their careers in education saw them move across the state while raising two boys. A leader by example, she modeled the values of empathy and honesty in her relationships with them. Holidays were always a special time for Steva. At Thanksgiving and Christmas, she always invited those who had no place to go for the holidays. This inclusion of others continues to inspire her family and serves as a model for how Christ welcomed all to have a seat at His table.

Steva’s most treasured title was “Nana”, a name her grandchildren called her. They were the joy of her life. An avid reader, she loved reading bedtime stories to her grandchildren. This was a treasured time and a tradition that will be sorely missed. Her many friends will also miss the countless handwritten cards she mailed them for all occasions.

Steva is survived by her husband, Randy, of La Grange, NC; her children, Will Bledsoe (Megan) and John Bledsoe (Brittany); grandchildren Molly, Charlie, Lila, and Hazel Bledsoe; brother Billy Hardy; sisters Sue Shelton and Nancy Sauls (Dean); and brother-in-law Paul Bledsoe (Nancy); nieces and nephews; and many other members of her extended family including her special cousin Barbara Freeman (Jerry). She is also survived by many dear friends made throughout her life in education and her life experiences in High Point, La Grange, Emerald Isle, and Elkin.

A time for fellowship with the family will be held Tuesday, September 13th from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Rouse Funeral Home in La Grange, NC. A celebration of remembrance will be held honoring her life Wednesday, September 14th at Rouse Funeral Home in La Grange, NC at 2:00 PM with interment to follow at Fairview Cemetery in La Grange.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in remembrance of Steva Bledsoe to Institute United Methodist Church c/o Nancy Sauls, 4821 Bryan Hardy Road La Grange, NC 28551.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.  

Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.