Donald Ricks Steele

Donald R. "Don" Steele, 91, passed away peacefully at his Kerrville residence on January 31, 2026, after a lengthy illness.

Don was born on July 23, 1934, in Weir, MS, to Robert Ricks Steele and Edna McHan Steele.  He spent part of his youth in Memphis, TN, before moving with his family to Texas, living in San Antonio and later Corpus Christi, which he always considered home.  He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepfather, Marion M. Steele; his brother, Guy Steele, his sisters, Sylvia Steele Gordon and Marjorie Steele Sutton; and his daughter, Donna Steele.

After graduation from W.B. Ray High School in Corpus Christi in 1952, Don attended Del Mar College and The University of Texas at Austin.  He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage, AK.  Don spent 34 years with Reynolds Metals Company (now Alcoa), working at the two Ingleside, TX plants, and later at the corporate headquarters in Richmond, VA.  He retired from his automation management career in Richmond in 1993, after which he and Janell moved to the Texas Hill Country to build their dream home just outside of Kerrville--a true labor of love.

Don valued friendship, faith and family.  He maintained a close group of friends for more than 50 years, sharing softball, hunting trips, poker games and annual retreats on the Frio River.  He loved road trips, camping, and later, many memorable cruises with Janell.  Deeply involved in their church community, Don served as an Elder at First Presbyterian Church Kerrville and volunteered with mission and charity work that reflected his generous spirit.

A devoted Longhorn fan, Don's love for UT Austin sports--especially football--was notable.  His family joked that his blood ran burnt orange, and game days just won't be the same without him.  Above all, Don was a kind and loving partner to Janell, happiest at the grill or serving as her sous chef in the kitchen.

Don believed in celebrating life while living it.  Many were fortunate to gather for his 90th birthday in 2024--planned by Don himself--because he wanted to be there to enjoy it.  It was a joyful celebration, and all who loved him are grateful for the extra years they got to share with him.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Young and the compassionate staff of Peterson Hospice, especially his RN, Charlene and the CNAs.  Our deepest appreciation also to Jana Miller of Caring Senior Service, for her loving care and kindness.

A memorial service and celebration of Don's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church Kerrville.  A private interment will precede that service at the church's columbarium.  If you're unable to attend the service, it will be livestreamed on the church website, fpckerrville.org, beginning at 11:00.

In lieu of floral tributes, please consider donating in Don's memory to Meals on Wheels through the Dietert Center, 451 Guadalupe St., Kerrville, TX 78028, or securely through their website, designating the Meals on Wheels program.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald Ricks Steele, please visit our floral store.