Richard Edward Steele

Richard Edward Steele, 91, was born in Maspeth, Queens, NY on April 15, 1932 and passed away in Spartanburg on April 3, 2024 after a lengthy battle with congestive heart failure. Just days before his passing, Richard and his extended family enjoyed a wonderful Easter weekend together in Columbia where his sharp wit and joking nature were on full display for all to enjoy.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Harriet Steele, and by his siblings Alfreda Steele, Henry Steele, Frank Steele, Helen Carlson, Roy Steele, and Linda Steele. He has a surviving sister, Ruth Lisa, who resides in Long Island, New York.

Richard was a faithful and loving husband to Carmella “Millie” Steele of Spartanburg and was married for 66 years. He is also survived by his two children, Marygrace Hollingsworth and Richard J. Steele of Columbia, SC and his three grandchildren Grace Shell (Griffin), Bradley Hollingsworth, Jr. (Payton) and Lindsay Hollingworth. He was also blessed to be the great-grandfather to Emma Shell.

Richard put faith and family first in all things, leading by example in his everyday life. He was an honest man and a hard worker who got up every day without complaint to provide for his family. He worked full-time until he was 78 years old to ensure that his family was provided for and to ensure that his children had the necessary foundation to be successful professionals and good, honest people in his and his wife’s mold. His legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren.

Richard was a devoted husband to his wife of 66 years, Carmella “Millie” Steele. He was always worried about his wife’s well-being and that concern was paramount to all else. Sometimes it took the form of him asking “Mill are you ok” multiple times a day when they were in separate rooms of the house or in the form of multiple cell phone calls to her when she was out running errands. As Richard and Millie navigated old age together, they were a true example of a partnership based on deep-rooted love, commitment, and responsibility for each other.

Richard was also known affectionately as Papa Two to his family and was a quick-witted jokester to the end. It was remarkable to see his mind work and the wheels turn as he was coming up with his next quip.  

Richard was a United States Army Veteran who served in the 1950’s. His commitment to being a good citizen and living an honest and productive life was evident for all to see.

Richard had a strong Catholic faith and faced his illness without fear. He oftentimes indicated that he didn’t want to be a burden to anyone, and he was blessed to pass away in the manner that he wanted: in the comfort of his home, overnight, and peacefully. He was never a burden and he will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be 10:00-10:45 in the Narthex of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church on Thursday, April 11, 2024. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00am in the Sanctuary, conducted by Father David Whitman. A reception will follow the services in the Parish Center.

Burial will be in Fort Jackson National Cemetery at a later date.