Stephen Ray Anders

Coach Stephen Ray Anders, a retired coach, high school teacher and lifelong volunteer comedian, 70 years old, of Swannanoa, NC passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Eugene Anders Sr. and Ruth Ann Harris Anders, and two sisters, Wanda Anders Westall (Bud) and Sondra Anders Cook (Barry).

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife that he loved dearly in marriage for 46 years, Deborah Glemaker Anders; a son, Nathanael Anders (Brooke); a daughter, Elise Anders (Xavier); six grandchildren, Uriah, Amaad, Aaron, Alex, Carter, Sophia. He is also survived by a faithful brother, William “Gene” Anders Jr. (Rhonda), and a devoted sister, Pam Anders Petit (Quentin); his best friend, Mike Bailey, and numerous nieces and nephews. Together, Steve and Debbie raised their son and daughter to be strong and amazing. Steve’s grandkids were the light and joy of his life!

Steve a graduate of A.C. Reynolds High School worked as a teacher and coach for 25 years at his alma mater – A.C. Reynolds High School and retired from the State of North Carolina. He attended Montreat College, Mars Hill University and received his teaching degree from Warren Wilson College with a major in history. He coached men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, and men’s and women's golf. The women’s golf team was Northwestern 4A champions in 2007 and 2008. He was the Coach of the Year in 2015 for Mountain Athletic Conference for men’s golf. Steve was also Coach of the Year for 2007 and 2008 for women’s golf.

His humor and genuine concern for those in his life were his gifts. His personal passion was playing golf, spending time with family, and going on family vacations. He was an avid sports enthusiast. He was a devoted fan for the Carolina Tarheels, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Washington Redskins. 

He will be missed by his family and so many others. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, March 21st 2026 at 2:00 p.m., at A.C. Reynolds High School. The family will be receiving friends at 1:30 p.m. before the service. We welcome all who knew him! It would show him a great honor for you to attend.

In lieu of flowers, to propel his love of sports for future generations, we would like all donations to go the A.C. Reynolds athletic department in honor of Steve Anders.

Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road is assisting the family.