John Henry Steele

Obituary: John (PaPaw John) Henry Steele, 85 of Rockwell passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, March 6, 2013 with his family by his side. His death follows a brief illness. Mr. Steele was born on January 28, 1928 in Rowan County, a son of the late David Vance and Lena Mae Cox Steel. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife Nellie Wagner Steele who died in 1995, and a brother Hubert Steele. He was employed as a supervisor in the spinning room at the former Cannon Mills and retired after 45 years of dedicated service. He was a US Navy veteran serving on the USS Dyson and enjoyed gardening and being outside, working in the yard. He was of the Baptist faith and enjoyed reading his bible. He was known for his easy smile and loving heart and will be forever missed by his family and friends. Left to cherish his memories are daughters; Martha Turner and her beloved Robin Garrison of Salisbury, and Janice Johnson and husband Jimmy of Rockwell, two grandchildren; Tracy York of Salisbury, and Mark Johnson and wife Nikki of China Grove, six great grandchildren that he loved dearly, and a sister; Janie Stancil of Kannapolis. Funeral services for Mr. Steele will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday, March 8, 2013 at Whitley's Funeral Home Main Chapel with Rev. Harold Jordan officiating. Burial will follow at Carolina Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Friday, March 8, 2013 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Rowan County Hospice and Palliative Care, 720 Grove St., Salisbury, NC. 28144. Online condolences may be left at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com
Visitation: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM Friday March 8, 2013 Whitley's Funeral Home

Service: 12:00 PM Friday March 8, 2013 Whitley's Funeral Home Main Chapel

Interment: Carolina Memorial Park