Ralph Kenneth Steely

Ralph K. Steely, 85, of Miramar Beach, Fla., passed away on the morning of Feb. 21, 2008.
"Kenneth" or "Steely," as he was affectionately known, was born on May 19, 1922 in Corbin, Ky. to the late Florence Smith Steely and the late Herbert Ova Steely. He was a 1939 graduate of Lily High School and a 1946 graduate of Eastern Kentucky University. He soon left to serve his country gallantly in WWII.
Among his many achievements, Steely flew over 49 missions as a Bombardier Navigator with the 57th Bomb Wing. Before retiring as Lt Col, Steely enjoyed his responsibilities as a meteorologist and Hurricane Hunter.
Steely touched many lives as he taught at Warren Easton High School in New Orleans. He enjoyed spending time putting together puzzles, playing golf and cheering the New Orleans Saints. Most of all, Steely loved his family. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.
Steely is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mary Dee Steely of Miramar Beach; son, Robert Kirk Steely and his wife Karen of Ooletwah,Tenn.; daughter, Martha Steely Wade and her husband James of Lynchburg, Va.; grandchildren, Kristen Steely of Atlanta, Kevin Steely of Atlanta and Kelly Steely of Knoxville, Tenn.; and brother, Herbert Leo Steely and his wife Betty Jean of The Villages, Fla.
The family will receive friends at Davis Watkins Funeral Home, 8 Racetrack Road, NE, in Fort Walton Beach from 2-4 p.m. Feb. 24 with complimentary valet parking.
Funeral services will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. Feb. 25 with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that contributions be made to the Salvation Army, 425 Mary Esther Cut-off, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, in Steely's memory.
You may share memories, offer condolences and sign the guestbook at www.daviswatkins.com