Steven Craig DuPriest

In Loving Memory of Steven "Stevie" Craig DuPriest On September 28, 2023, the world lost a remarkable soul as Steven Craig DuPriest, aged 69, peacefully departed this Earth, surrounded by the warmth of his close-knit family. His journey had been one of unwavering courage, as he valiantly battled the relentless grasp of Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease. Born in West Columbia, SC, Steve was the cherished son of the late Earl Redelle DuPriest Jr and Katherine "Lib" Elizabeth Sox DuPriest. In his formative years, he walked the halls of schools in Cayce-West Columbia, where he was not only a student but a child charter member of Transfiguration Lutheran Church. Sparking his love for the outdoors as a Cub Scout, he was guided by his devoted mother, who served as a den mother. Later, Steve's journey led him to Summerville, SC, where he became a proud member of Summerville High School's legacy. His heart belonged to the Summerville Green Waves, a passion nearly as fierce as his love for the Clemson Tigers. The indomitable work ethic that defined him was a legacy passed down by his father, the founder of Tideland Utilities Inc in 1969. Steve took this legacy to new heights, not only through his dedication but also through his compassion for his colleagues and employees. Throughout the Lowcountry, he was revered for his prominent contributions to the water and sewage utility industry & led Tideland to unfathomable growth. Steve's heart, generous to a fault, extended far beyond his professional life. He was a man who found fulfillment in helping others, whether through his craft, his involvement in various charitable causes, or simply by being the genuine person he was every day. Known affectionately as "Steamboat" for his ceaseless energy, Steve and his beloved Sissy DuPriest hosted the annual Steamboat's Children's Charity Golf Tournament & Auction, a joyous event that championed causes dear to his heart: the fight against childhood cancer and the support of local children's centers. An ardent outdoorsman, Steve found solace in the natural world, whether hunting, fishing, or boating the open waters. Some of his fondest memories included competing in the Governor's Tournament aboard the "Earls Girl", shrimping with loved ones on the serene creeks of the Wando, or hunting at his farm with those he loved. His adventurous spirit knew no bounds, taking him and his cherished friends and family to destinations spanning the globe, from Ecuador to Canada, Cuba to Costa Rica, and his favorite retreat, Abaco in the Bahamas. As a devoted Clemson football fan, he held season tickets and a hallowed tailgate spot at Tiger Park, where camaraderie and laughter flowed freely before each big game. He was a loyal member of the Omar Shrine, a Freemason, & a member of the Court of Jesters. He was strong in his faith and was a member at AllSaints Lutheran Church in Mount Pleasant, SC. Steve was more than just the life of the party; he possessed a heart as vast and boundless as his physical presence. Even in his final days, he continued to radiate that infectious smile & laugh, his heart overflowing with warmth, relishing precious moments with his family, dear friends, and selfless caregivers. The Family extends their deepest gratitude to all of Steve's caregivers, especially Patty, the dedicated team at MUSC Neuro ICU, and the compassionate souls at Lutheran Hospice. They were the earthly angels who brought comfort and solace when it was needed most. Perhaps Steve's proudest achievement was being an extraordinary father to Peyton Craig DuPriest and Brittany "Morgan" Whittemore. His legacy lives on through the love and memories he shared with them, a testament to the remarkable man he was. Steve's journey may have come to an end, but the love, laughter, and kindness he brought to this world will forever linger in our hearts. Stevie was preceded in death by his parents & brother, Earl DuPriest III. Survived by children, Peyton DuPriest (Zoë) & Morgan Whittemore, both of Charleston; his lifelong best friend, Sissy DuPriest of Mount Pleasant; his sister, Mollie DuPriest Taylor (Henry) of West Columbia; a half-brother, Steve Smith (Sherry) of Hawthorne, FL; nieces, Alicia Dickerson & Beth Branham (Keith); nephews, Earl DuPriest IV (Kelly) & Jonathan DuPriest; as well as numerous beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Sunday, October 1st from 5PM to 8PM at James A. Dyal Funeral Home, 303 South Main Street, Summerville, SC 29483. Funeral services will be held Monday, October 2nd, 10AM at James A. Dyal Funeral Home, 303 South Main Street, Summerville, SC 29483, immediately followed by a private burial at Beulah United Methodist, Sandy Run, SC. Celebration of Steamboat's life will be at The Windjammer, 1800 Ocean Boulevard, Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Monday, October 2nd at 4PM. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the Alzheimer's Association (act.alz.org (http://act.alz.org/)) & Dorchester Children's Center (https://dorchesterchildren.org (https://dorchesterchildren.org/). Flowers and notes can be delivered to James A. Dyal Funeral Home and will be given to the family.

Steven Craig DuPriest

September 4, 1954 - September 28, 2023