Georgia Lee Steele

Georgia Lee Steele, 84, formerly of Nelsonville, Ohio, passed away on May 8, 2025, after a long journey with Alzheimer's disease.

Georgia was the beloved daughter of the late Eileen Reighard. She was a graduate of Nelsonville High School and earned her Bachelor's degree from Ohio University. She later lived abroad in France and Morocco before making her home in New York City, where she married Peter Bakstansky. Together, they shared 45 years of marriage, building a life rich in creativity, culture, and community.

Georgia's work with St. Mark's Episcopal Church-in-the-Bowery and her passion for the arts, education, and music spoke volumes about the kind of person she was - always learning, always giving, and always creating beauty in the world around her. She and Peter spent weekends in a rustic, unheated and uninsulated cabin in Connecticut and then worked together on a renovation to create a house they loved - just one example of their shared spirit of determination and joy.

During her long and difficult journey with Alzheimer's, Peter ensured Georgia had the best possible care while remaining a steady presence in her life. His commitment and compassion during this time reflected the deep bond they shared.

She is survived by her husband, Peter Bakstansky; her brothers, Jerry Steele, Larry Steele, and Bill Reighard; her aunt, Yvonne Woods; a special cousin, Debbie Cox, several nieces and nephews; and many close friends who were like family. She was preceded in death by her mother's longtime companion, Paul Barrows, whose emotional support and steady encouragement were a gift to their family.

Georgia will be remembered for her generous spirit, deep intellect, and the lasting impact she had on those around her.