The Richmond News, June 23, 2023

Aug. 5, 1934-June 5, 2023 Donna Faye Steele was born on the small family dairy farm in Orrick to parents Irving and Lillie Woods. She had one sibling, big brother Eldon “Rhodie” Woods.

Donna lost her mother at a young age, so in addition to school, she helped manage their small dairy farm with her father and brother. Her favorite story always included when early in the morning before school, and again in the evening, she and her brother Rhodie would deliver milk to the residents of Orrick. Rhodie got to drive the truck. Donna had to carry the heavy milk bottles to each customer while “Brother just sat in that old truck!”

She loved her brother so much, and most of her cherished memories included Rhodie.

Donna married Kenneth Steele in 1956 and traveled to many states throughout Ken’s U.S. Air Force career. They had one son, Timothy, born in 1961 while stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska. In 1969, when Ken retired from Norton Air Force Base, the family settled in San Bernardino, Calif. Donna retired after 27 years as a service dispatcher for Sears in San Bernardino.

Donna was predeceased by her parents, husband, brother and many cousins. She is survived by their son, Timothy; her sister-in-law, Marilyn Woods; her loving friends; and her “adopted kids,” Floyd and Donna Gilbreth.

Donna requested there be no memorial service. Floyd and Donna Gilbreth will take Donna on her final “road trip” as they drive her to Higginsville, where they will have her ashes interred with Ken’s at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery.

Donations can be made to Donna’s favorite charity, Disabled American Veterans (dav.org), in her memory.

Donna is finally resting in the arms of our precious Lord Jesus, but Floyd and I will miss her every day until we see that sweet smile of hers again.

Cremation handled by Arrowhead Aftercare in Highland, Calif.