Lillian Bruce Spencer Steele

Greensboro: Lillian Bruce Spencer Steele, 94, a resident of Wellspring, died on Friday, December 19, after several years of declining health. A native of Virginia and a graduate of Averett College, Lillian began her professional career as a school librarian in Danville, Va. In search of adventure and a change in her life, Lillian, her mother, and a friend moved to Greensboro in the early 1940’s. Lillian took the civil service exam and secured a job with ORD as a clerk/typist where she worked until the position was moved to New Jersey. Lillian then applied for a job as a school librarian in the Greensboro Public Schools and became the first full-time Guilford County school librarian.

It was in Greensboro that Lillian met and married John Richard Steele, a serviceman, who later became plant manager for Container Corporation of America. Lillian and Steele (as she called him) were married for thirty-two years until Steele’s death in 1976.

Lillian was an active member of Starmount Presbyterian Church, a supporter and volunteer with the Greensboro Opera Society, and a member of P.E.O., Chapter A.

Lillian was preceded in death by her husband, John Richard Steele, and her parents, Samuel and Lottie Spencer.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, December 26, at Westminster Gardens, and a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 8, in the chapel of Starmount Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Starmount Presbyterian Church, 3501 W. Market St., Greensboro, N.C. 27403 or Averett University, 420 West Main Street, Danville, Va. 24541.

On line condolences may be sent through www.haneslinebeeryfuneralhomes.com.