Steven Clayton Slater

Steven Clayton Slater, 78, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025. A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, starting at 2:00 p.m. at Jubilee! at Rainbow Community School Auditorium, 60 State St., Asheville, NC 28806.

Born on March 11, 1947, in Illinois to Clayton R. Slater and Polly Slater, Steve was raised in Albert Lea, Minnesota, alongside his two sisters, Kathy Slater and Nancy (Slater) O’Toole. He graduated from Lea College in 1971 with a degree in Elementary Education and went on to serve as a performance consultant and facilitator with Wilson Learning for many years.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of forty years, Louise Rogers Slater, and his four children: Cari (Slater) West and her husband Mike West of Old Fort, Clayton Slater and Francesca, Luke Slater, and Philip Bell and his wife Raley, all of Asheville. He is also survived by two grandchildren, AJ and Samantha West, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

His first marriage was to Lois (Claude) Slater, with whom he had his daughter, Cari. He later married Louise Rogers Slater on July 27, 1985, in Columbia, South Carolina. Together, they raised their family in Charlotte, North Carolina and Columbia, South Carolina, eventually settling in Asheville, North Carolina.

Following his retirement, Steve enjoyed traveling with Louise and their children. He was a passionate Corvette enthusiast and shared that love with his family. Steve was also an accomplished woodworker and woodturner, generously sharing his skills with friends and family, and frequently participating in woodturning symposiums where he was always eager to teach, learn, and connect with others. Steve loved teaching and mentoring and was a founding member of The Young Craftsman’s Club serving children of South Carolina’s Department of Juvenile Justice.

Steve will be remembered for his dedication to education, his love of family, and his enthusiasm for craftsmanship and community. His wisdom, kindness, and stories will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to Camp Grier and designate in memory of Steve Slater.