Kenny Ray Steele, age 69, of Pleasant View, Tennessee, passed away Monday, May 4, 2026, at his home.
Funeral services will be conducted at 5 o’clock pm, Friday, May 8th, at Highland Chapel Baptist Church in Cedar Hill with Pastor Blake Stiles officiating.
The family will receive friends at the church on Friday beginning at 12:00PM until the hour of service at 5:00PM.
Following the funeral service, Mr. Steele’s remains will be cremated.
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we remember a man whose faith, humor, and love for his family left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
A devoted Christian, his faith in God was the cornerstone of his life. It guided his actions, shaped his character, and carried him through both joyful seasons and difficult trials. He lived his beliefs openly—through kindness, resilience, and unwavering trust in the Lord—leaving behind a powerful legacy of faith that will continue to inspire generations. Kenny was a faithful member of Highland Chapel Baptist Church in Cedar Hill, Tennessee.
Originally from Dearborn, Michigan, he carried his roots with pride wherever he went. He was a lifelong and loyal fan of the Detroit Lions and Michigan Wolverines football, finding great joy in cheering on his teams and sharing that passion with those around him.
He moved to Tennessee as a child, where he built a meaningful life and career. He dedicated many years of service as a correctional officer and Lieutenant at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution, carrying out his duties with strength, integrity, and steadfast commitment until his retirement.
He was known as a tough and dedicated father, instilling strength, discipline, and values in his family. Yet as a grandfather, he was full of joy and warmth. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he never missed a chance to laugh with them, support them, and cherish every moment they shared.
He had a passion for sports cars and anything fast, always appreciating the thrill they brought. He also enjoyed watching football and westerns. Even more memorable was his lively spirit—he was always “cutting up,” sharing jokes, and bringing laughter into any room he entered. His sense of humor and lighthearted nature made him truly unforgettable.
He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, laughter, and strength. Though he will be deeply missed, those who knew him can find comfort in knowing he is at peace, and his spirit lives on through the many lives he touched.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Fena Steele, and his brother, Jeff Steele. He is survived by his wife, Sherri Steele; his children, Justin (Heather) Steele, Jeffery (Nancy) Steele, Fena Jessica (Jonathan) Gobell, and Jacquelyn (Dustin) Shadowens; and his 13 grandchildren, Ethan, Tyler, Landon, Destiny, Dailynn, Knox, Neyland, Tennessee, Carson, Emmy, Wyatt, Kathleen Rose, and Hunter. Kenny has also left behind loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Steele’s memory to the funeral home to assist with funeral expense.
AUSTIN & BELL FUNERAL HOME in Pleasant View is in charge of these arrangements. 6316 Highway 41A, Pleasant View, Tennessee 37146 (615) 746-4433 www.austinandbell.com
