Beatrice Stanley Steele

On April 17,1936 (2/27/1936) Beatrice was born to the late Jim Stanley and Lillie Duff Stanley in Selma, Alabama. On this day our blessings began. She was known as Bea, Sue, Moma, Granny, Nanny, Auntie Bea and Aunt Sue.

At an early age, she received Christ at Saint Paul Community Methodist Church formerly known as Saint Paul A.M.E Church in Selma, Alabama. Later in life she moved to New Orleans, Louisiana. Then she joined Second Zion Baptist Church where she faithfully served for many years. She was a part of and the lead soloist in many choirs, such as The Mass Choir, the Gospel Chorus and the 100 Member Choir for the National Baptist Association and Convention. When she moved to Birmingham, Alabama, she continued serving God through song. She was truly one of God's "songbirds". Throughout her life, she was known by many for her numerous solo performances.

Beatrice received her high school diploma at R.B. Hudson High School in Selma, Alabama. Later in life, she received certifications as a Nursing Assistant and CPR. Upon retiring from Sears after 30 years of dedicated service, she commenced to volunteer at hospitals and nursing homes throughout New Orleans, Louisiana.

Beatrice was united in holy matrimony to Matthew Steele, Jr. on July 9, 1955. She loved him dearly until his passing.

Beatrice was preceded in death by her husband, Matthew Steele, Jr.; her father, Jim Stanley; mother, Lillie Duff Stanley; two brothers, Jimmie (Ethelle) and Theodore and one sister, Lena Mae Stanley.

Beatrice leaves to cherish her memories her children, Robert Charles (April) Johnson and Lori Elaine Steele; her grandchildren, LaShunda Steele (Jonathan) Myles and Cheniqua Steele (Andrew); her great grandchildren, Matthew Robert Lee Steele, Eden and Elijah Myles; her goddaughter, Giselle (Zelfaries) Brown; one sister-in-law, Carrie Graham of Cleveland, OH; a devoted niece, Chenita Stanley and a host of nephews, nieces, family and friends who love her dearly and will miss her daily.