Jerry Steele

Jerry B. Steele, 86, of Crane Lakes in Port Orange, FL, passed away the afternoon of September 30, 2023. Born in Mansfield, LA, one of three children to Alfred and Caddie (nee Bruce) Steele, Jerry graduated from Pelican High School. Jerry enlisted in the United States Air Force immediately after high school – enjoying a career in aircraft maintenance that lasted for over 25 years. Beginning with basic training, Jerry ended his time with the Air Force as a Senior Master Sergeant after having seen action during the Cuban and Vietnam conflicts. While in the service, he met and fell in love with Fay Bashaw, marrying her on May 2, 1959. They spent over 64 years together, learning alongside each other, raising a family, dancing, and being fully in love – not letting the little things stand in their way. Moving to Florida from New York in December 1998, Jerry and Fay found residence in Crane Lakes where the golfing bug finally bit Jerry, and led to most days being able to find him on the green or at home relaxing and enjoying his retirement.

Jerry was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, and was involved with the VFW. In addition to his late found love of golf, Jerry loved square dancing and billiards. A truly good man, he helped to teach his children appreciation for a well-kept home, an honest day’s work, and how to keep alive and true the love of a good woman.

Jerry will be remembered forever by his wife, Fay; sons, William “Bill” Steele, Alan (Monica) Steele, Shayne (Sandra) Steele, Adam (Laura) Steele; daughters, Donna Steele and Robin O’Dell; brother, Billy Steele; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren, and a host of friends. He was met in Heaven by his sister, Diana Fellows, and his fallen comrades.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 8:30 am, Friday, October 20, 2023, at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church, 4675 S. Clyde Morris Blvd., Port Orange FL 32129. Placement of the urn, along with military honors, will take place at a later date in his hometown of Mansfield, Louisiana.