Dorothy Ann Steele

Dorothy A. Steele, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Dorothy was born on March 3, 1940, in DeWitt, Iowa, to Marellene (Gravert) and Frank Christoffersen. A bright and spirited young woman, she graduated from DeWitt High School in 1958 as Salutatorian.

Dorothy’s love of music and enthusiasm for life shone through as she played the clarinet in the band and served as both a cheerleader and drum majorette.

She attended Iowa State University from 1958 to 1960, where she met the love of her life, Edward Frederick (Fred) Steele II. They were married in 1960, beginning a beautiful partnership that lasted more than six decades. Together, they raised three daughters — Christine Marie, Anne Rene, and Mary Margaret — and shared a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure as they made homes in Omaha, Nebraska; Auburn, Alabama; and Columbia, South Carolina.

While in Columbia, Dorothy pursued her passion for education, earning her B.A. in Education (1971) and M.Ed. (1976) from the University of South Carolina. A dedicated and caring elementary school teacher, she inspired countless students through her compassion and creativity. Dorothy was also deeply committed to improving education for all — she helped develop a teacher evaluation instrument and worked tirelessly toward school integration, embodying her belief in fairness and opportunity.

In 1977, the family moved to Oelwein, Iowa, where Fred joined his family’s business and Dorothy continued teaching. Her leadership extended beyond the classroom — she served as president and chief negotiator for the local education association, advocating for her fellow teachers with strength and grace.

After retiring early in 1986, Dorothy poured her heart into her community. She volunteered with civic groups on beautification and economic development projects, always striving to make her surroundings brighter and more welcoming.

Dorothy and Fred later divided their time between Iowa and South Carolina before settling full-time on Fripp Island in 2006. There, Dorothy found joy in volunteering with many local organizations, most notably serving seven years on the Women’s Club Community Outreach Committee — three as co-chair — helping to raise funds for deserving causes each year.

Dorothy had a gift for bringing people together and creating joy in everyday life. She loved playing board games with her grandchildren, often turning simple moments into cherished memories filled with laughter. Summers at the family’s beach house were among her happiest times — hosting family gatherings, cooking meals filled with love, and watching generations of family enjoy each other’s company. She found peace and beauty in her garden, creativity in her sewing, and satisfaction in solving crossword puzzles — often without even glancing at the layout.

Dorothy and Fred shared many favorite pastimes together, including bridge games with friends, traveling to new places, and going on cruises, where they enjoyed making lifelong memories side by side.

In 2016, they moved to Cary, North Carolina, to be closer to family. Dorothy’s warmth, kindness, and generosity of spirit continued to shine through every conversation, every gathering, and every shared moment with those she loved.

Dorothy is survived by her devoted husband, Fred Steele; daughters Christine (Grant) Young and Anne Koho; grandchildren Shelby Henningsen, Jacob Young, and Lucas (Janelle) McCann; great-grandson Jencin Hendricks; and brother Bob Christoffersen.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Mary McCann, and cherished granddaughter, Ashley Henningsen.

Dorothy will be remembered always for her quick smile, her boundless compassion, and her unwavering love for her family and community.