CeCile Ann Steele

CeCile Ann Steele, an inspiring force for education and empowerment, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026, at the age of 78 at Good Shepherd Nursing Home in Wheeling, WV. Born on May 12, 1947, in Beckley, WV. CeCile spent her life championing teachers' rights and uplifting communities through her unwavering dedication and remarkable spirit.

CeCile began her professional journey as a teacher in Marshall County, where she touched countless young lives with her passion for education. She was an advocate representing educators for the West Virginia Education Association (WVEA). A testament to her tireless efforts and determination.

Her career continued to flourish as she assumed the position of Director of Governmental Services in Columbus, Ohio where she actively fought for teachers' rights and fair wages, playing a key role in the successful passage of collective bargaining, followed by her most recent role as a Labor Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association (OEA). Throughout her career, CeCile was recognized as a dedicated and hardworking woman, respected and admired for her integrity and tenacity.

Beyond her professional achievements, CeCile was a devoted member of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Wheeling and had served as a past president of the Georgia State Episcopal Church Women (ECW). She also became a member of the Daughters of the King in Savannah GA. Her faith and community involvement were central to her life, offering guidance and support to those around her.

CeCile is preceded in death by her loving parents, Cecil and Gloria (Curtis) Gill. She is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 34 years, Sam Steele of St. Clairsville, OH; her cherished children, Michelle Callahan of St. Clairsville, OH, Suzanne (David) Muncy of St. Clairsville, OH, Rebecca Steele of Shadyside, OH, and Laura (George) Clarke of Raleigh, NC; her brother, David (Mae) Gill of Waynesburg, PA; her adored grandchildren, Hannah, Lauren, Marshal, Grace, and Madison; nieces, Carrie (Kirk) Dover and Amy Peters; cousin Thomas Rapp; brother-in-law Greg (Linda) Steele of CA; and great-nieces and great-nephews: Jarrett, Amya, Mattox, and Khyler; and a great great nephew Giovanni.

In lieu of public services, the family invites friends and loved ones to share memories and condolences through www.altmeyerfuneralhomes.com. Those wishing to honor CeCile's legacy are encouraged to make memorial contributions to either Moundsville Middle School c/o The Food Pantry, 223 Tomlinson Ave., Moundsville, WV 26041, or St. Paul's Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 70, Edneyville, NC 28727, or online at www.tmcfunding.com.

CeCile Ann Steele will be remembered as a beacon of strength and advocacy, whose life's work made a profound impact on those she served and inspired. Her legacy will continue to light the way for future generations.

A celebration of life is being planned by the family that will occur at a later date.