James Monroe "Pete" Steele

James M. "Pete" Steele was born January 30, 1947 in Manchester, Georgia to Merrill and Ruth Lanier Steele.

A lifelong resident of Manchester, Pete was a graduate of Manchester High School. A voluntary member of the US Navy, he saw active combat in the Vietnam war. Afterward, he married his bride Debbie Gill Steele, graduated from Gupton Jones College of Mortuary Science, and then returned home to co-found Smith-Steele-Meadows Funeral Home. Pete retired after more than 35 years of exemplary service to the community. He took deep pride in his service to families in their greatest time of need. In retirement, he fulfilled the prized role of "PaPete" to his five grandchildren and honed his talents as a potter and gardener.

Pete is survived by his wife of 52 years, Debbie; daughter Stacey (Bryan) Gibson; son Michael (Megon) Steele; five grandchildren - Kaylee Stroud, Cade (Jessie) Steele, Bryce Monroe (Hollie) Gibson, Mya Gibson, and Jordan Gibson; and one great-grandchild - Aymon Stroud.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the City of Hope Myeloma research fund at: https://ourhope.cityofhope.org/give/286522/#!/donation/checkout .

A private memorial service with immediate family only will be held at a later date.

Cox Funeral Home, is assisting the family with arrangements. Expressions of condolences and well-wishes may be offered at www.coxfh.com.