Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1512433
THE ARTISAN WINTER 2024 • 87 In Memoriam Ray Steele (1935-2022) Journeyman Make-up Artist Ray Steele joined Local 706 in July 1967 after passing the test and attaining journeyman status. He was the son of Charles M. Steele, the Columbia Lot steward from Local 727. He apprenticed under Ben Lane at Columbia. He was an armed services veteran, having served from April 1958 through March 1960. Staci J. Witt (1971-2023) Journeyman Make-up Artist "With a career spanning 20 years, studios, networks & indies, dogs, cats (and one elephant), both coasts, and abroad, Staci Witt had many highlights and many fond memories. What she truly treasured were the many lasting shared that the siblings, James, Bob, and Gail, were remarkably close. The three of them worked in the film business, along with Bob's wife Marty, and Gail remembers him as a talented artist. Laurel Van Dyke, his niece, fondly reminisced about her cherished childhood moments spent with James. After retiring from the Local, James transitioned to a quieter life in Oregon. He loved sharing stories about his chickens, cats, and goats with his brother. He spoke to Bob and Gail often, and his last words were, "I love you." He is survived by his brother Robert, sister Gail, beloved children Jimmy, Thomas, Billy, and five grandchildren. He will be greatly missed. During his make-up career, he worked on many television shows but was especially proud of the work he did on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, where he met his wife Judy Evans, who was a costume designer. She pre- deceased him in 2017. Other shows that he worked on were WKRP in Cincinnati, Benson, Soap, It's a Living and Bosom Buddies. He also worked on Planet of the Apes. In 1977, he worked on The Betty White Show, and his wife worked on Golden Girls, which started a love affair for the raising and rescuing of Alpacas, all under the encouragement and guidance from Betty White. Ray retired from Local 706 in August 1997, and took an Honorable Withdrawal in September of 1999. His he is survived by his next of kin, son Kevin Steele and Kevin's wife Camille Steele. No services have been planned. friendships she forged along the way." -Ron Recio It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Staci J. Witt. She leaves behind a legacy of creativity, talent, and a heartwarming passion for her craft. Staci began her journey as a trainee make-up artist with Local 706 in 2007. With her extraordinary artistic abilities, ranging from period to prosthetics, Staci worked on shows such as American Horror Story, Gerald's Game, and Billionaire Boys Club. She was Co-department Head on the 2019 production of The Haunting of Hill House. Her work on the show was nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing phenomenal special effects and prosthetic work, a topic she would later speak about on the Netflix "Make It Scary" panel. Throughout her 20-year career, Staci lent her talents to countless studios, networks, and indie projects. Her work was not confined to any one location, as she ventured across both coasts and even abroad, leaving a trail of exceptional artistry wherever she went. Beyond her professional achievements, Staci's true treasures were the deep and lasting friendships she forged along her journey. Those who were fortunate enough to know her can attest to her kind and caring nature. She had a special place in her heart for animals, having shared her life with dogs, cats, and even an elephant.