Shirley Colbert Steffee

Shirley Colbert Steffee, age 94, of Jacksonville Beach, Florida, passed away on December 14, 2025. Shirley was born on August 21, 1931 in Bay City, Michigan and grew up in the Wenona Beach amusement park (known for its roller rink and casino). One summer, while she was working as the cashier in the casino, a young bass player named Richard “Dick” Steffee came to play in the band. Letters from Dick to his parents mentioned how sweet and kind she was and soon they were married. They initially lived in Dick’s home town of Oil City, Pennsylvania. After a short time, they moved to Columbus, Ohio where Dick had many friends (who rapidly became Shirley’s friends) and where he worked as a musician. In 1966, the now family of 5 moved to South Florida to work with and be closer to Shirley’s family. They eventually settled in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida where Shirley lived for 55 years prior to moving to Jacksonville Beach, Florida to be closer to her daughter.

Shirley always remained that sweet and kind person that caught Dick’s eye. Everyone was welcome in her home and many came to feel like part of her family. She was a beloved mother, mother-in-law, wife, teacher (2nd grade and reading intervention), colleague, travel companion and friend. Teaching was her great gift and she was a fabulous teacher not only to the students in her many classrooms, but also to her children and grandchildren. Shirley loved to travel (overseas and across the entire United States) and had many adventures with her dear friends Jackie, Lyndal and Barbara.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Ora and Gladys Colbert; brother, Robert “Bob” Colbert; husband Richard “Dick” Steffee, and son, Dan Steffee. She is survived by her daughter Lea Ann Hall (Tony); son Doug Steffee (Fran); daughter-in-law Pat Steffee; grandchildren Chris Meldon, Alexandra Steffee and Emily Steffee (Demetrius); great-grandchildren Lito and Roman and sister-in-law, Mary Jane Colbert.

Shirley will be remembered for her zest for life along with her quick wit and kind heart. She will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her and were touched by her warmth, wit and generosity.

The family is grateful for the loving care provided to our mother from the caregivers and staff at Fellowship Cove as well as all of the folks from Vitas Hospice who were part of her care team. Interment will be at the Jacksonville National Cemetery. If you wish to honor Shirley, please consider a donation to Vitas Hospice in Jacksonville, Florida (or a hospice near you).