Arlen Lee Steele

Arlen Lee Steele Sr., 72, of Anderson, passed away on March 22, 2026, at CHI St. Joseph Regional Health Center in Bryan, Texas surrounded by family.

Arlen was born March 3, 1954, to Donnie and Ardith Steele in Gulfport, Mississippi.

Arlen graduated M.B. Smiley High School in Houston, Texas and began his career at K-mart where he held various managerial roles. After that he worked on barges in Houston, Texas. In 1988 he began his career at Trinity Industries in Navasota where he retired after 30 years as an industrial engineer/maintenance supervisor.

Arlen met his wife Debbie at K-mart and it was love at first sight. Arlen had a love for BBQ and competed in many BBQ competitions over the years with Debbie by his side and his boys were right there with him. Arlen was a teacher when it came to all 5 of his boys and was able to work with all of them over the years at Trinity. Arlen was best known as “Papa” because his grandchildren were the light of his life and every single one had a very special relationship with their Papa.

He is survived by his Wife Debra (Debbie) Steele:  and brothers William E. (Pete) Steele and wife Glynn, Richard D. Steele and Wife Leighann; and sisters Patricia Faye (Patsy), Phylis Gean and sons; Rohnny Steele, Kenneth and wife Marcy Steele, Mark and wife Beatriz Steele, and James Steele. Arlen has 10 grandchildren Arlen Steele Jr’s Child: Trenton Steele Rhonny’s children: Kylee, Stoney, Sierra Steele Kenneth’s Children: Kayla and Lane Steele Mark’s Children: Nathaniel (Nathan), Mark Jr, Kasen Steele James’ Child: Baylen Land

He is preceded in death by his parents Donnie and Ardith Steele, Son Arlen Lee Steele Jr., Brothers: Donnie Merle Steele and Kevin Eugene Steele.

From all the kids and grandkids, “Thank you for all the life lessons you taught us over the years, we love you Papa”.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Martin’s Prairie Cemetery Association.