Deborah Lynn Steele, age 61, of Hardin, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Vanderbilt Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.
Deborah was born on June 30, 1964, in Murray, Kentucky, to her devoted parents, Roy Steele and Nancy Byers Black. Deborah was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, niece, and friend, and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Deborah had a deep love for all things creative. She spent countless hours scrapbooking, sewing, and cross-stitching—finding true joy in making thoughtful, handmade gifts for friends and family. Her passion for crafting extended into her professional life, as she spent many years managing the fabric and craft departments at the Murray Walmart, where she was known for her knowledge, dedication, and kindness. Later in life, she spent more than 10 years as an administrative assistant at Dicks Sporting Goods, where she cultivated many friendships.
A member of the Hardin Church of Christ, Deborah held a strong and unwavering faith in the Lord. She was an avid reader of the Bible and lived her life guided by compassion, generosity, and a sincere desire to spread kindness to everyone she met.
Above all else, Deborah cherished her role as an aunt and great-aunt. Affectionately known as “Bobe,” she adored her niece, nephews, and great-nieces, who were truly the light of her life. She loved cheering them on in every endeavor and took immense pride in each of their accomplishments.
She is survived by her mother, Nancy Byers Black of Hardin; her brother, Keith Steele (Carol); her aunt, Carolyn Downs; her nephew, Noah Steele (Morgan); her niece, Ellie Steele, all of Benton; her nephew, Kaleb Steele (Ryan) of Nashville; and her two great-nieces, Parker Steele and Palmer Steele.
She was preceded in death by her father, Roy Steele.
Deborah did not want sorrow and flowers at her passing—she wanted celebration and balloons. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you contact Leanndra Barrow at (270) 703-5311 or loveleparty@gmail.com to order balloons, or consider making a donation to The Wonderfully Made Foundation in her honor.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM on Monday, January 19, 2025, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann, 1003 Poplar Street, Benton, KY 42025.
Funeral Service will be at 2:00 PM on Monday, January 19, 2025, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann. Burial following at Union Hill Cemetery.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit Deborah’s Tribute Wall at www.filbeckandcann.com
