Dr. Robert Joseph Steeley, Respected Educator, Passes Away

Article Sponsored by:

Want to target the right audience? Sponsor our site and choose your specific industry to connect with a relevant audience.

What Sponsors Receive:
Prominent brand mentions across targeted, industry-focused articles
High-visibility placements that speak directly to an engaged local audience
Guaranteed coverage that maximizes exposure and reinforces your brand presence
Interested in seeing what sponsored content looks like on our platform?
Browse Examples of Sponsored News and Articles:
May’s Roofing & Contracting
Forwal Construction
NSC Clips
Real Internet Sales
Suited
Florida4Golf
Click the button below to sponsor our articles:
A tranquil school environment symbolizing education and remembrance.

News Summary

Dr. Robert Joseph Steeley, an esteemed educator and community leader, died at the age of 82 in Roanoke, Alabama. Known for his dedication to education and community service, Dr. Steeley had a profound impact on many lives throughout his career. He is survived by three children and five grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of academic and community contributions. The family requests donations in lieu of flowers.

Roanoke, Alabama – Dr. Robert Joseph Steeley, a respected educator and community leader, passed away on June 7, 2025, at the age of 82. He died at the Traylor Retirement Community after facing the lingering effects of a significant stroke he suffered in 2015.

Born on January 10, 1943, in Key West, Florida, Dr. Steeley was the only child of Gordon Thomas Steeley and Ivesta Jones Steeley, both of whom have predeceased him. He spent his early years in Scottsboro, Alabama, later moving to Beaufort, South Carolina, where he created a close bond with cousins he considered brothers.

Dr. Steeley began his education in Beaufort, attending school while his parents worked at nearby Parris Island. His early life laid the foundation for his future as an educator. His journey saw him meet Joan Gantt in the 3rd grade, and the pair later married in 1961, sharing nearly five decades together before Joan’s passing in 2011.

Throughout his teenage years, Dr. Steeley took on various jobs, often helping local fishermen and working on a drawbridge, experiences that enriched his appreciation for community. A talented athlete, he participated in football, basketball, and baseball, and was a member of the 1976 State Championship Track and Field Team. Music was also a passion, as he played guitar and sung in a band during the 1950s.

Dr. Steeley dedicated himself academically, earning numerous degrees in education, history, counseling, educational leadership, and administration. He further pursued his education and obtained his Doctorate in Education in 1978. His professional career was marked by numerous positions as a coach, teacher, assistant principal, and headmaster in various educational institutions.

Among his notable achievements, Dr. Steeley served as the first headmaster of Holly Hill Academy, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020. His educational leadership extended to Hammond School and Springwood School before his retirement in 2011, a milestone that marked the end of a prolific career dedicated to shaping the minds of future generations.

Outside his professional life, Dr. Steeley was a devoted family man. He is survived by three children: Chris Steeley (Morgen), Tracy Henson, and Jennifer Fuller (John), along with five grandchildren. His extended family includes sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends. He was predeceased by his wife, parents, and several in-laws.

Dr. Steeley was also known for his involvement in community service, having served in the National Guard and participated in the Rotary Club. His faith was an integral part of his life, serving as a Deacon at both Baptist and Methodist churches in communities where he lived.

Visitation for Dr. Steeley will take place on June 21, 2025, from 12-2 PM Eastern Time at the Springwood School Freeman Arts Center in Lanett, Alabama. Burial is scheduled for a later date in Beaufort, South Carolina. The family expresses gratitude for the support and care provided by the staff at Traylor Retirement Community, and appreciates the medical attention received from Dr. Ivan Lewis Slavich during his illness.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Johnson Brown Funeral Home in Valley, Alabama, or to Jennifer’s residence in West Point, Georgia.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

HERE Greenwood
Author: HERE Greenwood

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!
Article Sponsored by:

Want to target the right audience? Sponsor our site and choose your specific industry to connect with a relevant audience.

What Sponsors Receive:
Prominent brand mentions across targeted, industry-focused articles
High-visibility placements that speak directly to an engaged local audience
Guaranteed coverage that maximizes exposure and reinforces your brand presence
Interested in seeing what sponsored content looks like on our platform?
Browse Examples of Sponsored News and Articles:
May’s Roofing & Contracting
Forwal Construction
NSC Clips
Real Internet Sales
Suited
Florida4Golf
Click the button below to sponsor our articles:
Construction Management Software for Contractors in Greenwood, SC

CMiC equips contractors in Greenwood, SC, with an integrated construction management solution that enhances project oversight and financial accuracy. The software provides seamless integration between office and field teams, offering real-time job tracking, resource management, and compliance monitoring. Whether handling commercial or residential projects in Greenwood, CMiC ensures better project efficiency and collaboration.

Learn More about CMiC’s offerings here. 

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Sign Up Now and get your local business listed!