Billy Ray Steele

Billy Ray Steele, 90, of Bessemer City, passed away February 17, 2022, at his home.

He was born January 22, 1932, Gaston County, son of the late Thomas and Bessie Warlick Steele.

Billy was a proud Air Force Veteran serving his country for 27 years and served during both the Vietnam and Korean Conflicts.

After retiring, he became a common figure of the community running Roberts Supermarket for over 20 years.

He was an active member and Elder at First Presbyterian Church in Bessemer City. He loved his God, wife and family and always willing to help them in any way he could.

Billy would wear his military ball caps with pride striking up a conversation with anyone who commented.

A funeral service will be held 2:00 pm Wednesday, February 23, 2022, at First Presbyterian Church, 202 North 14 ^th Street, Bessemer City, officiated by Rev. Kitty Tompkins.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Interment will be at Westview Gardens, Bessemer City with military honors provided by the US Air Force.

Billy is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Betty Steele; his children, Peggy Ward and husband Jack D. Ward, William "Beau" Steele and wife Julie Steele, Tammie Kiser and husband Tyler Kiser; grandchildren, Kale Steele (Haley), Candace Branton (Kevin), Christina Roland (Jarrett), Josh Costner, Zach Wood (Amanda), Adam Ward, Aryn Bandoly (Daniel), Jerad Kiser (Madison), Katelyn Kiser; fourteen great-grandchildren; numerous nephews and nieces.

In addition to his parents,Billy was preceded in death by eight siblings, and a granddaughter, Brandi Steele.

Memorials may be sent to Gaston Hospice PO Box 3984 Gastonia, NC 28054 or First Presbyterian of Bessemer City, PO Box 365 Bessemer City, NC 28016.

Arrangements are with the West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service, Gastonia.