Steven Burkett Death: It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Steven Burkett, who left this world peacefully in his sleep this morning. Those closest to him know that Steven fought the good fight until the very end — with courage, determination, and a strength that defined who he was at his core. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life that was deeply meaningful, powerfully inspiring, and full of love. His journey, though far too short, was one that left a mark on every heart he touched.
To know Steven was to know warmth. He had a presence that could calm a storm, a sense of humor that could lift even the heaviest spirit, and a heart that gave without hesitation. He was so many things — a partner, a son, a father, a friend — and he wore each role with devotion and grace. The bond he shared with those closest to him was unbreakable, filled with tenderness, laughter, and a deep, unwavering love.
Steven’s passing leaves a space in our lives that no one else can fill. And yet, even in the face of this grief, we find ourselves remembering him with smiles through the tears — because he gave us so many moments to hold on to. Memories of his quiet strength, his playful nature, the sparkle in his eyes when he laughed, and the comfort of his steady presence will remain with us always.
Steven Burkett Obituary: Raleigh, North Carolina Cherished Member Has Passed Away
To Sophia — your father loved you with a depth and purity that words cannot express. He was so proud of you, so moved by your kindness, your light, your resilience. You were his joy and his purpose, and everything he did was rooted in the desire to give you a beautiful life. Know that his love surrounds you still. It will be the wind at your back, the whisper in your heart, the strength in your spirit. He may no longer walk beside you, but he will always walk within you.
To Steven’s mom — you gave the world a son who made it better simply by being in it. Your love shaped him, supported him, and helped him become the incredible man so many came to cherish. As a mother, your heart is forever entwined with his. Know that he felt your love every moment of his life — especially in the quiet strength you showed during his most difficult days. The love between a mother and her son is eternal, and nothing — not even death — can diminish that bond.
To Steven’s partner, who held his hand and heart through every moment — your tribute to him says it all: “Rest in Peace, my Easter Bunny. I will love you forever.” Those words carry a love so deep, so true, that it will outlast even this sorrow. You stood by him with fierce love, through light and darkness, and your presence brought him comfort in the moments when he needed it most. The nickname, “Easter Bunny,” says everything about the joy and sweetness he brought to your life — and you to his. The love you shared was the kind that many search for but few find. It was real, it was beautiful, and it will never fade.
Steven was a fighter. Even as his body grew weary, his spirit never faltered. He met his illness with bravery, facing each day with quiet dignity and an unrelenting will to live. He carried his burdens with grace, not because they were light, but because he was strong. His journey was not easy, but he never let it define him. Instead, he defined it — with his unwavering hope, his refusal to give up, and his ability to find light even in the darkest hours.
And through it all, the love and support of those around him never wavered. To everyone who offered a kind word, a meal, a hug, a prayer — your compassion meant the world. In times of trial, the human heart is at its most fragile, and yet also its most resilient when held up by love. Thank you for helping to carry the weight of this journey alongside Steven and his family. In moments of deep grief, community matters — and you were that community.
As we say goodbye to Steven, let us not only grieve his absence, but also honor his presence — the laughter he brought, the love he gave, the lessons he taught us simply by being himself. Let us hold close the memories — big and small — that now become our treasures. The holidays you spent together, the quiet evenings, the silly jokes, the knowing glances, the shared dreams. These memories are gifts he left behind, each one a reminder of how fully he lived and how deeply he was loved.
His life teaches us that love is the most powerful thing we can offer. That even when words fail, love speaks. That kindness matters. That presence — simply showing up for one another — matters. That even in pain, there can be peace.
As hard as it is to let go, we take comfort in knowing that Steven is now at peace. No more struggle, no more pain — only light, only rest. His spirit is free, and yet it remains with us — in the way we love, in the way we care for each other, in the way we remember. He is not gone, not really. He lives on in every person whose life he touched, in every story we tell about him, in every heart that carries his memory.
Rest in peace, Steven Burkett. You were so deeply loved. You are still so deeply loved. And you always will be.
Forever in our hearts.