Gladys Maxine Surratt Steele

Gladys Maxine Surratt Steele, 86, of Springfield, passed away at 3:25 p.m. on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at Memorial Medical Center. Gladys was born September 27, 1924 in Ivesdale, the daughter of Norman and Lily Mae Harmon Gribbins. She first married Dewey Surratt in Union City, TN. He preceded her in death. She later married William V. Steele, Sr. in Springfield. He also preceded her in death. Gladys graduated high school in Bradforton, KY in 1941. She worked as a cosmetic supervisor for 37 years for Thrifty Drug. In earlier years, she worked for a professional photographer in Danville. During WWII, Gladys worked at the Defense Plant in Danville. Prior to being employed at the Lewis Memorial Christian Home in the Activity Department, she volunteered there for a number of years. While raising her family was her greatest accomplishment, Gladys also enjoyed reading, embroidery, chocolate, fishing and taking care of her grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents; and 13 brothers and sisters. She is survived by her son, Robert (wife, Judy) Blackwell of Riverton; daughter, Rita (husband, Chuck) Hill of Ashland; step-daughter, Patricia (husband, David) Moe of Portland, OR; ten grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Georgia Vasconcellos of Corona, CA; brother-in-law, Dale Lape of Danville; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 19, 2010 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. A funeral ceremony will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 20, 2010 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home with Rev. Vaughn Beeman officiating. Burial will follow at Yatesville Cemetery in Ashland. Memorial contributions may be made to: American Cancer Society, 687 E. Linton Ave., Springfield, IL 62703 or American Heart Association, Midwest Affiliate, 2008 S. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60604-1242.