Steve Bennett Grubbs, 79, of Palm Bay, Florida, formerly of Sunset Beach, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026.

Born on January 4, 1947, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Steve was the son of the late George Royce Grubbs and Mozelle Bennett Grubbs. He attended North Forsyth High School and later Guilford College. After serving in the United States Navy during Vietnam, Steve spent his career working in Parole and Probation, later retiring from the State of North Carolina and relocating to Sunset Beach, North Carolina.

Following his retirement, Steve and his beloved wife, Susan, enjoyed coastal living and time with friends. After Susan’s passing, Steve relocated to Palm Bay, Florida, to be closer to family.

Steve was preceded in death by his loving wife, Susan Hartlage Grubbs and sister-in-laws, Dolores Hoilman and Dianne Hartlage.

He is survived by his brother, Douglas Grubbs (Cynthia) of Indian Harbour Beach, Florida; his niece, Kendra Redmon (Keith) of Indialantic, Florida; his sister-in-law, Katherine Coats (Terry); his brother-in-law, Fred Hartlage; his niece, Denise Everett (Jess); and his nephews, Stephen Coats (Melissa) and Allan Coats (Stacey), all of North Carolina.

Steve enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He especially loved gathering with friends for poker games, traveling, and taking cruises, where he could often be found trying his luck in the casino.

In lieu of flowers, Steve would like donations to be made to the Hospice organization who cared for Susan until her passing. Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401, or made online at lifecare.org