Mary Barnes Willson Steele

Mary Barnes Willson Steele, 103, died on Monday, November 3, 2025. She was born June 21, 1922, the first child of Etta Barnes Willson and Crawford Hoy Willson, in the Amelia County family home. 

She was predeceased by her husband of 48 years Andrew “Jack” Jackson Steele, Sr. and their son Charles Hoy Steele; sister, Etta Louise Willson Loften; daughter-in-law, Zaria Trimazi; and close cousin and friend, Mildred L. Willson.

Mrs. Steele was a graduate of Amelia High School and attended Farmville State Teacher College, now Longwood University, two years before her marriage. She won academic honors in both schools.

Throughout her adult life she was a faithful volunteer in various capacities whenever she was able, including her many years at Westminster Canterbury.

She is survived by one son, Andrew J. Steele Jr. of Germantown, MD., grandchildren, Teri R. Steele and husband Eric Sullivan of Piedmont CA., Shauna R. Steele and husband Benjamin L. Powell of Washinton D. C., Gregory D. Steele and wife Ronda of Santa Rosa, CA., and David Steele of Germantown, MD.; one brother, Preston R Willson and wife Janie of Lynchburg, VA.,; nine great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and cousins.

Contributions in her memory may be sent to Westminster Canterbury Fellowship Fund, 501 V.E.S. Road Lynchburg Va. 24503 or to a charity of your choice.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.