Beth Steelman, Development Officer for the Coastal Land Trust, passed away on March 17, 2023.

A trusted colleague, dear friend, and invaluable mentor, Beth is sorely missed by all of us.

Beth has been involved with the Coastal Land Trust for 21 years, first as a landowner when she and her family placed their Pender County land under conservation easement. A true conservationist at heart, Beth knew if she didn’t take action, their land would be lost to development. Because of her and her family’s efforts, those 140.484 acres are protected forever.

Beth then served the Coastal Land Trust as a board member from 2004 – 2010, providing leadership and guidance to the organization stemming from her long career in journalism and the nonprofit sector.

After stepping down from the Board, Beth continued to serve the Coastal Land Trust by joining the development staff in 2010. She served in this role until her death last week. This wise, witty woman taught our team a great deal about communication, nonprofit fundraising and donor stewardship. She was good at it because she was good with people. Her vast experience, which she shared generously, has been essential to the Coastal Land Trust’s success.

Beth always said this was the perfect “almost retirement” job for her. It might have been the perfect job for her; we know she was the perfect team member for us. We are deeply saddened to lose her.

We invite you to learn more about this extraordinary person:

https://www.andrewsmortuary.com/obituary/elizabeth-steelman

With Sorrow,

Harrison, Jesica, Marlo, Janice, Lee, Eric, Laura, Sydney, Sarah, Mellissa, Kenneth, Bryce, Maddie, and Stephanie