Mary Yoe Steele

“Mary Yoe” was born on October 25, 1929, in San Antonio, Texas, to Seth Z. McConnico and Elizabeth A. Fisher. Her father, Seth McConnico passed away while she was still an infant. She was raised by her extended family in Nashville until her mother married her step-father, Jack Umstead, who was a central father figure in her childhood.

Mary Yoe, as she was called, grew up with a love for learning and creativity that would shape her life’s journey. Mary Yoe pursued her passion for the arts at Columbia College in Missouri, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Arts.

In her lifetime, Mary Yoe cultivated a rich tapestry of interests and talents. She was an accomplished artist whose paintings reflected her vibrant spirit and creative vision. She painted with oil, water color, and acrylics well into her nineties. Her love for beauty extended beyond the canvas to her garden, where she found joy in nurturing flowers and houseplants. Mary Yoe also had a deep appreciation for opera and theatre, and kept up with the times with contemporary artists and music. She was a voracious reader with an insatiable curiosity about history, geography, and local lore. She loved a good mystery novel and was a huge fan of historical and western fiction.

Mary Yoe share her life with her late husband, Joseph “Joe” Steele. She was a military wife and “held the fort down” as an amazing and capable partner while Joe was assigned to his tours of duty out of the country. She was a loving mother to Mike (deceased), Linda, John (Jack), Mary, Becky, and David; nurturing her children with care and unwavering support. She also reveled in her sixteen grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild—each of whom held a special place in her heart. She instilled a curiosity for life and learning, and encouraged her loved ones in their endeavors with interest in their progress throughout their lives.

Mary Yoe’s life was marked by resilience and an adventurous spirit. She embraced new experiences with enthusiasm and inspired those around her to do the same. Her spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her smile lit up a room and her quick wit was part of her sublime humor towards life.

Mary Yoe’s home was always filled with warmth and love—not only for her family but also for her cherished feline companions. Mary Yoe had a love of all God’s creatures; her focus in her later years was with her kitties. She rescued many and also donated to several charities and shelters. Charities and efforts Mary Yoe supported included local art museums, public media, St. Jude’s Hospital, SOS Children’s Villages, and several feline rescues.

She is preceded in death by her father Seth Z. McConnico; parents Jack and Elizabeth A. Umstead; husband Joseph Steele; son Michael Steele, and brother John Umstead.

Mary’s legacy lives on through the countless memories she created with her family and friends. Her love of her family and life itself will continue to inspire those who carry forward the lessons she imparted.

May Mary Yoe McConnico Steele’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her as they celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with love, creativity, curiosity, and boundless generosity of spirit.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on July 11, 2026, from 04:00 PM to 06:00 PM at Collierville Funeral Home. 3863 Bailey Station Road. Please join us to commemorate her and share your memories. For those who feel the need, please give to a charity of your choice instead of sending flowers.