James William Steele, 78, of Fort Smith, passed away on November 3, 2021. He was born on May 24, 1943 in Barber, Arkansas to Earl and Juanima Steele. James was a Navy Veteran, having served during Vietnam. He worked for Baldor for over 43 years before his retirement. James was a former member of Cavanaugh Missionary Baptist Church where he was a deacon, treasurer, usher, greeter, worked with youth and served on various committees, sang in the choir. He is a current member at Living Faith Missionary Baptist Church. He was a greeter, usher and previous treasurer. He also sang in the choir on occasion. But, most of all, he was a witness to other’s about Jesus.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Janelle Hall and Rebecca Schalski.
James is survived by his loving wife, Judy Steele; self-adopted daughter, Winter Dawn Stagner of Magnolia, AR; two sisters, Barbara Steele of Fort Smith and Marie Westphal of Van Buren; honorary sister, Jean Perdue of Fort Smith; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.
Funeral service will be 10 AM, Monday, November 8, 2021 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Edwards Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to Living Faith Missionary Baptist Church, P.O. Box 180402, Fort Smith, AR 72918
