Joe... just looking at the persimmon, I doubt I'd want to stain it. Very pretty in it's natural state...creamy tan with lots of black "blotches".
I don't know how the pecan would look... might be a bit plain.
I think the locust and persimmon would make a killer riser with locust limbs.... I'm assuming you have honey locust. I don't have a clue about black locust.
The honey locust I have is almost pink in the raw, but sanded and under finish it is more yellow with a slight reddish cast. Don't know what light does to it over time.
Andrew... yep, you've seen that block before. Maybe you could post a pic of "Obit" for Joey.