With profound sadness and a gentle embrace of memory, we share the heart-wrenching news of Rev. Dr. James Stephen “Steve” Colladay's departure from this world. On the serene morning of Friday, February 23, 2024, he softly transitioned into a realm of eternal peace and solace. He has found his rest after a brief illness.

Steve entered this world in Hutchinson, Kansas, on January 27, 1942, a cherished son to Franklin and Margaret Colladay. His brothers, Rev. Franklin Grimes and David Colladay, preceded him in death, leaving behind a legacy touched by both their influences and his indelible mark.

As an ordained Unity minister, Steve dedicated his life to spiritual leadership and growth as a certified transitional specialist and a ministry skills consultant at the Unity Worldwide Ministries central office in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. His 25-year tenure as a full-time senior minister spanned four Unity ministries, enriched further by five years of transformative work as a transitional ministry specialist and church growth consultant. His profound expertise and unwavering passion allowed him to impact over 40 Unity ministries across 25 states.

Dr. Colladay's leadership extended to serving on the regional Unity board of trustees in three key regions—South Central, Southeast, and Northwest Unity regions, including impactful roles in Dallas and UMASS (southeastern states).

His academic and professional journey was distinguished by a doctorate in Organizational Development in Health Care from International College and a master’s degree in College Administration and Counseling from Michigan State University. Beyond his degrees, Dr. Colladay's commitment to lifelong learning was evidenced by his completion of three extended units of clinical pastoral education in Kansas City, MO.

A staunch advocate for the military and first responders, Steve’s compassion and dedication led him to serve as a consultant and volunteer mentor for VA Vet Centers across five states. His invaluable contributions extended to Regional Vet Center staff training events in the Pacific and Midwestern regions. As an Interfaith Chaplain with the DFW Airport Interfaith Chaplaincy, he offered solace and support to military personnel in transit from Iraq/Afghanistan.

Steve's mentorship within The Battle Within program in the Kansas City area was a testament to his deep commitment to supporting veterans and first responders as they navigated the challenges of post-traumatic stress. His dedication went beyond simple guidance; Steve poured his heart into understanding and empathizing with the struggles faced by these heroes. His approach was personal, always aiming to connect on a human level, offering strategies for coping, a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on, and a voice of encouragement. Steve's efforts were about healing and empowering each individual to recognize their strength and resilience. Through his compassionate mentorship, Steve became a beacon of hope and a source of unwavering support for those fighting to reclaim their lives from the shadows of their experiences.

Beyond his professional contributions, Steve was a gifted pianist, composer, and visionary producer of programs aimed at stress management and mental conditioning for veterans and athletes. His passion for physical health was just as profound, manifested in completing 29 marathons and four 36-mile ultra-marathons, a testament to his discipline and dedication to well-being.

Steve was an Extremist in Love; when remembering Steve, it is essential to celebrate his profound capacity for love. Living with a heart that knew no limits, his passion was fierce, protective, and generous. This legacy of warmth and compassion will forever inspire those touched by his presence. Steve believed in the power of love to heal, connect, and transcend; this belief will forever be a guiding light for all who knew him. His life was a beacon of service, compassion, and inspiration. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life beautifully lived, a legacy that will continue to light the way for many.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at 1:00 PM, at Unity Village Atrium Chapel, 200 Unity Way, Lee's Summit, MO 64065. Live streaming will be available.

Following the ceremony, we will gather for the scattering in the Rose Garden and a reception hosted by UVC’s Sisters of Myrtle Fillmore.