Eric James Steele

He was born in Rochester, New York, in 1967 to Harold and Dorothy Steele and lived in Scottsville until moving to North Carolina in 1996.

As a boy, Eric excelled in sports—on the baseball diamond, the soccer field, and especially in the swimming pool—setting records that still stand. Being a skilled hunter was a vital aspect of his life in the Steele household as well.

Eric grew up actively involved in the Cephas prison ministry that expanded his huge heart to a wider appreciation for others and the needs in our world today.

A gifted student and lifelong learner, Eric earned acceptance to the University of Notre Dame, where he majored in Great Books Literature and secured his B.A. in 1989, becoming a first generation college graduate. His passion for learning continued as he later completed a M.S. from Purdue University Global in 2022.

Eric worked hard to provide for his family. He taught middle and high school in both New York and North Carolina. His curiosity and love of technology led him to learn computers and move into IT. He applied his computer skills and natural teaching ability at NIEHS, before committing 18 years to Papa Johns working in Transportation Safety. During that time, he would go on to help build and strengthen their nationwide delivery platform.

Eric had a unique way of leaving people and places better than he found them. He loved helping others understand difficult subjects and wrestling with big philosophical questions. A passion for educating, coaching, and inspiring others ran through every season of his life.

Nothing came closer to his heart than his children, until the arrival of his granddaughter. He travelled across the country to be with them and provide whatever support possible.

He loved to read and write creatively, watch any sporting event, live and die by his Fighting Irish, play epic games, enjoy nature and a good cigar. Eric gave of his time: volunteering as a eucharistic minister, homebound ministry, prison mass ministry, and as an active member of his men’s group at St. Ann’s Catholic Church.

Eric was preceded in death by his father, Harold, and his half-brother, Daniel. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy, his godfather, Kenneth, his godmother, Linda, his sister, Beth, and his brothers, David (Tanya) and Jon (Katy), many nieces and nephews, his wife of 34 years, Abigail, his sons, Nathaniel (Jane) and Cameron, and his granddaughter, Evangeline.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations may be made in Eric’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Eric will be remembered as a beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, and husband, as well as a devoted Dad and Pappy—two of the titles he cherished most. His wisdom, insight, razor-sharp wit, and signature belly laugh will be deeply missed by all. He will also be remembered for his faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

There are two opportunities to join in celebrating Eric’s Life - see details below.

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All are welcome to attend Eric’s funeral mass; to be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, March 20, 2026

St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 4057 US-70 BUS, Clayton, NC

Reception and celebration of life to follow from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm in the parish hall.

No RSVP is required.

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A celebration of the life of Eric Steele will be held on Saturday, April 11 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Caledonia Country Club, 303 Park Place, Caledonia, NY.

RSVP 585-880-5519