James Edward Steedly

James “Jim” Edward Steedly, 87, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away on December 6, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. Born on August 9, 1938, in Louisville, Jim was the son of the late James Edward Steedly and Martha Ann Gibson who raised him with the values of hard work, humility, and kindness that defined his life. Jim attended the University of Kentucky, graduating in 1960 with a degree in metallurgical engineering and, as an outstanding graduate of ROTC, received a regular commission in the US Air Force. While at UK, he met his wife Priscilla Moorman Jones, the love of his life and partner in many life adventures.

After serving his country for five years in the Air Force and earning a master’s degree in metallurgy from the University of Arizona, Jim turned to a lifetime of entrepreneurship, owning and operating Republic Welding and subsidiaries in Kentucky with his cousin George Sotsky, Applied Energy Company in Texas, and PowerFlow in Missouri with Jim and Donna McCain. He was a fair, caring and charismatic leader, earning the respect and affection of employees and colleagues.

Gifted with a meticulous mind and steady hands, Jim’s talents extended far beyond the workplace. He designed and built the family home, where he and Priscilla raised their children and lived for more than 50 years. That home was the backdrop to many memories, celebrations, and quiet moments that shaped generations of family and friends. His family often joked that Jim could fix anything– except perhaps his fondness for corny jokes, which he delivered with the perfect blend of charm and mischief. He was a faithful attendee at the gym, avid golfer, enjoyed the outdoors, loved meals and celebrations with family and friends and traveling with Priscilla. Friends and family alike remember him as compassionate, smart, steady and endlessly generous.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Priscilla (Jones) Steedly; his children, William Steedly (Suzanne) and Ann Steedly (James Rineer); his grandchildren, Allison (Daniel), Colleen, Matthew (Heidy), Michael (Sara), Alex and Evan, and his great-grandchildren, Abigail, James, Leah, Timothy, and Grace Lilly, and expected great-grandchild, Melody; his sister, Doris Ramey; his nephews Chris Ramey (Stacy) and Drew Steedly (Carrie), and niece Jennifer Steedly. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ronald (“Ron”) Steedly, and his nephew Brian Ramey.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to the caregivers of Caring Excellence for their dedicated and compassionate care, with special thanks to Knox Brown. Hosparus Health provided amazing support in the final months, along with close family friend Rebecca Garret. Special thanks to Hugh Spencer and Quinton Nottingham, whose steadfast friendships enriched Jim’s life in immeasurable ways.

A memorial service will take place Saturday, December 20 at 11 am EST at Strathmoor Presbyterian Church with fellowship immediately following the service. There will be a brief graveside service at Ivy Hill Cemetery, Hardinsburg, KY at 3:30 pm EST (2:30 pm CST).

The family requests that any donations be made to Hosparus Health https://hosparushealth.org/donate/ or Ducks Unlimited www.ducks.org