Michael Steele

Mike Steele of Jones/Harrah, OK went to his heavenly home on September 2, 2025. He was 73 years old.

Mike was born on January 22, 1952 in Durant, OK to Sam and Joy Steele. He was a devoted husband and loving father, doting grandfather and faithful friend. Mike and his wife Carol were married on August 19, 1997. They built a life together for nearly 30 years. They enjoyed camping in their RV, attending family events and playing music. Mike supported all of the activities and adventures his children and grandchildren participated in, including speech contests, athletic events, dance recitals, gymnastics meets, acting classes, choir concerts, politics, business adventures and nonprofit service. He was always there to cheer for his family.

Born with natural athletic ability and a competitive spirit, Mike quickly developed a love for sports. Baseball was his favorite game to play, and basketball was his favorite sport to coach. He possessed a unique ability to connect with people and inspire others to reach their goals. He was witty, clever, dedicated and conscientious in all things. These attributes served him well as a coach, bus driver, teacher, principal, and school superintendent. He had a way of spotting untapped potential and bringing out the best in those around him. He led every team he coached to a winning season. He was quick to explain that a 1-3-1 zone defense is hard to beat when properly executed, and the phrase "pass and go through" still likely reverberates in the ears of every Springdale Warrior who played for him. Mike served as principal at Dickson Elementary and Lukfata School District. He served as superintendent at McLoud and Jones Public Schools. He was very proud of the resiliency, perseverance, determination and resolve of the Jones Community in the aftermath of the school fire in 2007. When the new education facilities were constructed, Mike stated, "I have never been more proud to be a Longhorn."

Inspired by artists like the Beatles, George Jones and Merle Haggard, Mike learned to play the guitar at a young age and was a founding member of the Arbuckle Express and the Country Brains bands. He enjoyed joking, fishing, mowing and spending time with his "best bud" Rosebud, the family's Golden Retriever.

Mike is preceded in death by his father Albert Guy "Sam" Steele and mother Joy Lanell Steele. He is survived by his wife Carol, his children Tina Hanna, Kris (Kellie) Steele, Thad (Gabby) Gorczyca, and Lillian Steele, grandchildren Grace Hanna, Kat Hanna, and Hope Hanna, Mackenzie (Trent) Ogden and Madison Steele, AJ Moore and Jack Gorczyca, along with several cousins and friends who are like family. A funeral service will be held on Friday September 5, 2025, at Barnes and Fredricks funeral home at 10:00am.