McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory

02/20/2026

Nancy Ann Sturup Register

Nancy Ann Sturup Register, 79, of Columbus, GA died Friday, February 20, 2026 at Piedmont Midtown, with her loving husband by her side.

There will be a private inurnment at Parkhill Cemetery according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, GA 31907.

Born June 1, 1946 in Columbus, GA she was born the daughter of the late Jens V. and Mildred A. Sturup. Nancy Register graduated from Columbus High School, attended Columbus College and Perry Business College. She worked as a secretary for Fourth National Bank, Royal Crown Cola Co., Sigmund and Associates, Music Department for the Muscogee County School District, and Communicorp. She was a member of St. Luke United Methodist Church where she served as volunteer in many capacities over the years, mainly as secretary for the music ministry for 19 years. She sang with the St. Luke Chancel Choir and was a member of the Handbell Chori for many years. Her sweet spirit, smile, and presence will be missed by many.

She is predeceased by her brother, Jens P. Sturup.

She is survived by her husband, Doyle Register; niece, Candice Delago and Cente of Pensacola, FL; nephew Ryan Sturup and Cynthia of Pensacola, FL; great-nephew Chance Sturup and Anna of Columbia, SC and great-nieces Alexis Delgado and P.J. Sturup of Pensacola, FL.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Columbus State University Schwob School of Music for music scholarships, PAWS Humane Society, Northside Baptist Church, St. Luke Church, St. Thomas Episcopal Church, or charity of choice.

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02/20/2026

Linda Stanson Smith

Linda Ann Stanson Smith, age 75, passed away on February 18, 2026. She was born on September 19, 1950, in Opelika, Alabama, to the late Alvin Willard Stanson and Lois Sheppard Stanson. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Janice Stanson.

Linda was a woman of strong character, deep faith, and traditional values. Her faith guided her throughout her life, and she was a devoted, longtime member of Epworth United Methodist Church, where she faithfully attended and participated in her women’s life group and prayer circles.

She leaves behind her four children: Lee Smith (Tonya), Sandra Smith (Mike Lee), Carrie Borum (Matt), and Robyn Addison (Dale).

Linda was a proud grandmother to Allison Lee (Chris), Lindsey Harris, Andrew Harris, Cason Borum (Blair), Chandler Borum, Ryland Addison, and Ashlyn Addison. She was also blessed with five great-grandchildren.

Linda will be remembered as a strong and steady presence in her family. She lived by her values, remained firm in her beliefs, and carried herself with quiet strength. Her life was rooted in faith and family, her legacy will continue through the generations she helped shape.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at Epworth United Methodist Church, 2400 Devonshire Drive Columbus, Georgia 31904

on Saturday, February 28, 2026.

The family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m., and the service will follow at 11:00 a.m.

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02/19/2026

Dianne Kemp White

Dianne Kemp White, 70, of Columbus, GA passed peacefully on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Orchard View Nursing Home, surrounded by comfort and care. A memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 PM Sunday, February 22, 2026 at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff of Orchard View for their years of compassionate care, as well as to the gentle and attentive caregivers of Columbus Hospice.

Dianne loved her family deeply. She loved her son and daughter with all her heart and held a special place for her niece, Andee. She was extremely proud of her granddaughters, who brought her immeasurable joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carter Kemp and Edna Mann Kemp; her brother, Jack Alton Carter Kemp; her sister, Sarah Joan Kemp Harbuck; her daughter, Jessica Lee White; and her niece, Camille Kemp.

She is survived by her son, Jeremy White (Heather); her beloved granddaughters, Paige and Addison White; and her brothers, Dannie Kemp (Cheryl), Reginald Kemp, and Neil Kemp.

She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, including Andromeda Kemp Reising (Matt), Dawn Kemp Dorrill (Danny), Deborah Harbuck Jones (Ronald), Jeffrey Harbuck (Lisa), Brooke Thornton Wilson (Billy), Kendal Thornton Helewski (Zach), Jennifer White McLendon (Jeff), and many other cherished family members and friends

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02/19/2026

Georganne Lowe Hairr

Georganne Lowe Hairr, 84, of Gainesville, GA, passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 18, 2026 in Columbus, Georgia.

A celebration of her life will be held 3:00 PM, Saturday, March 14, 2026 at St. Paul Church of Columbus in the Illges Chapel, 2101 Wildwood Avenue, Columbus, GA with Rev. John Fugh officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd Columbus, GA 31907.

Georganne was born January 3, 1942 in Hope, Arkansas to the late John Berton and Rowena Hamilton Lowe. She taught high school English Literature for 20 years in Forsyth County, Georgia. She was known for her kindness, dedication, and love for her family. She married William Turner Hairr in 1961 and spent her young life raising their three girls in Arkansas, Indiana, and Georgia before embarking on her teaching career.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Bill Hairr, her dear brother, John Hamilton Lowe, and both of her parents,

She is survived by her children, Kimberley Hairr Hooks (Chris Wegmann), Catherine Elizabeth Illges (Kent), Amy Hairr Weinmeister (Oscar) beloved sister, Jeannie Lowe Reynolds, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a charitable donation to Columbus Botanical Garden at columbusbotanicalgarden.com.

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02/18/2026

Chloris Weldon

With love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Chloris Ethlyn Weldon, age 91, who went peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 17, 2026.

Chloris was born on June 12, 1934, and spent her life rooted in faith, family, friends, and service to others. A longtime resident of Cataula, Georgia, she was known for her gentle spirit, unwavering devotion, and the warmth she brought into every room.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harvey Weldon, with whom she shared a life of love and partnership.

Chloris was a cherished mother, grandmother, and matriarch of a large and loving family. She is survived by her children: Glenda Jones (Ed), Pete Weldon (Cindy), and Jan Carter (Tim).

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Alicia McGlamory (Gary), Walt Jones (Laura), Tiffany Simpson (Chad), Elena Morales (Rob), Gene Weldon (Megan), Lindsay Nance (James), Katye Taylor (Jordan), Mitchell Cannon (Falecia), Morgan Rook (T.R.), Hannah Hartt (Grady), and Cory Carter (Madeline), along with 27 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

A faithful Christian woman, Chloris was a devoted member of Bethesda Baptist Church in Ellerslie, Georgia, where she found strength, fellowship, and purpose. Her life reflected the love of Christ through her kindness, prayers, and steadfast example.

Though her family mourns her loss, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life and the assurance that she has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)

A celebration of her life will be held at 1:00 pm EST on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at McMullen Funeral Home with the Rev. Mark Blaxton officiating. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service at the funeral home, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm EST. Internment will be held following the service at Clowers Cemetery in Cataula, Georgia.

Chloris ("MeMe") will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever treasured as a woman of faith whose legacy will live on for generations.

Chloris was missions minded. If you choose, you may honor her through donations to Romania M25 Missions, Hepsibah Baptist Church at 1304 Friendship Road, Seneca SC 29678.

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02/17/2026

John Dawson McLemore

John Dawson McLemore, of Fortson, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, February 15 th at the age of 89.

Dawson was born on January 11, 1937 to William Henry McLemore and Sarah Faith Sewell McLemore in Rochelle, Georgia. He is predeceased by his parents, his sister Willie LaVerne Bussell and his brother, Bobby Lamar McLemore. He is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia Ragan McLemore, and his sister, Betty McLemore Nesmith. After graduating from Cochran High School, Dawson joined the Navy at the age of 17 with the promise to his Dad to come back and finish his schooling when he got out. While in the Navy from his enlistment in 1955, Dawson was an Aviation Ordnance Man AO3 3 rd class Petty Officer. He served aboard the USS Yorktown during peacetime until 1957. He always said that he loved the Navy and it was the best thing to ever happen to him and is what made him into a man. Keeping his promise to his Dad, he returned to earn his Associates degree in Business from Georgia Middle College. After graduating from college, he met and later in 1961, married his wife of 50 years, Evelyn June Lamberth who predeceased him in 2011. They had 5 children together, Marshall Tillman (Bubba) McLemore (Lora), William Keith McLemore (Tonia), Don Calvin McLemore (Lynne), Donna Jean McLemore Hutto (James), and John Darin McLemore (Tonya). He has 13 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Dawson held many jobs prior to the founding of his company, Masterbuilt. He was a cashier and delivery boy at Willie Reeves Grocery Store after school in Cochran, he was a land surveyor of cotton and peanut fields, sold Life Insurance where he collected debits on his numerous routes, and then worked at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company for 10 years. He decided after all of this, that it was time for him to be his own boss and to create and make things with his own hands. He started fulfilling his dream of doing just that in the backyard of a rental house on Thomason Avenue in Columbus, GA in 1972. He designed and built fern stands and baker’s racks out of steel; while teaching his kids how to weld and mass produce these items when they got home from school. After a year in the backyard with his family working with him, even at a very young age, Dawson decided it was time in 1973 to move this backyard operation into a larger place. He found an old building on 29 th Street and 2 nd Avenue in Columbus that he could rent. This is where M&M Welding was born. It was named for he and his sons working together. As this space then became too small, he later moved to a rented building on 29 th Steet and after being there awhile he then convinced the City of Columbus, to sell him the old Bus Barn on 2 nd Avenue and it was there that Masterbuilt became a reality.

Dawson was a deeply devoted man to “the Good Lord”. He would always put God first in any and everything he did. On his way back from one of his many on-the-road sales trip, he was having one of his talks with the Good Lord, and looked in his rearview mirror and saw the setting sun and he told the Lord that he would not be able to make this business into what he wanted it to be without His help. He spoke to the Lord and asked, “if you will help me, I will name the company after You. You are the Master and I am the Builder and I will call it Masterbuilt,” and thus began Dawson’s dream. His family was always by his side and were totally involved in the company as it grew and expanded and became a world-wide recognized company. In 1984, Dawson decided that it was time to turn Masterbuilt over to the boys. He retired at 47years old. During these retirement years he never stopped. He was always searching for new and exciting adventures. He and Boots travels extensively for months at a time until her health would not allow her to continue. Dawson was an avid scuba and cave diver, he loved off-shore boats and took many trips to the Keys to fish and camp on sandbars, he also loved to fish in fresh water. You never could out fish him, no matter how hard you tried. He bought many Airstream trailers and fixed them up and sold them from his backyard. He became an expert Archer. He would shoot tournaments all over the Southeast. In 1996, he was the World Champion in the Senior Class of the ASA Pro-Am for archery. He loved riding dirt bikes with his sons and many friends, and he was a very passionate hunter. Dawson took many trips to Colorado for elk but loved the white tail deer here in Georgia. He leased and bought property to run Deer Clubs for his buddies, friends and family to be able to gather and enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the fellowship. Many lasting relationships began at these Deer Camps and have only gotten stronger as the years have passed by.

Dawson was a founder of the Bi-City Woodturners which was established in 2003. It is a club where anyone interested in turning wood on a lathe can join and meet others with the same interests. He has turned over 300 pieces which fill his home. He is most proud of his accomplishment of turning 29 cowboy hats. Dawson was able to look at a chunk of wood and he knew exactly what he was going to turn out of it. He enjoyed turning pieces that were very unique and one-of-a-kind creations. He continued his love of this hobby until he passed away. In 2012, a new face showed up at the club meetings and the Monday sessions at Dawson’s shop. Little did he know that she would steal his heart while learning to turn wood from him. Cynthia Ragan McLemore is Dawson’s loving wife, best friend, and forever partner in experiencing a wonderful, laughter filled life. They married in 2016 and shared many trips ‘Out West’, to the Keys, Cancun, Alaska, Disneyworld and anywhere else they wanted to go. They built so many lasting memories together that will always have a special place in her heart, that she will find comfort and strength in, in the coming days and years. She and Dawson loved being with family celebrating everything together. They especially loved being with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren and sharing that happiness together every day for 10 wonderful years. His 89 years on this Earth have left and indelible mark on many and an incredible legacy of love, kindness, faithfulness, love of country, hard work and loyalty. He would always share that sweet, gentle smile and firm handshake with any and every one he met. He will be missed by so many that knew and loved him because he touched their lives in a deep and lasting way.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 PM Thursday, February 19, 2026 in the Chapel of McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory with Rev. Michael Spooner officiating. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service at the funeral home. Internment with military honors will be held following the service at Oak Hill Cemetery in Waverly Hall, GA.

Flowers will be accepted and the family requests that if you so choose, to donate to the United Service Organization (USO) which supports our service members and their families, or Tunnel to Towers Foundation which provides mortgage-free homes to veterans and Gold Star families, helps eradicate veteran homelessness and supports families of fallen first responders.

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02/17/2026

Brandon Sparks

Brandon “Brad” Franklin Sparks, 44, of Seale, AL passed away Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Columbus Hospice.

A memorial service will be held at Silver Run Baptist Church on Saturday, February 21st at 4pm. Friends and family are welcome to attend and will be given an opportunity to share memories they have with Brad.

Brad was born March 9, 1981 in Columbus, GA, son of Glenn Sparks and Linda Helms Sparks. He was employed at Mingledorff’s in Columbus for the last 4 years but worked a multiple HVAC companies over the years. Brad enjoyed all things sports. In high school he played baseball at Russell County High School and in more recent years enjoyed pick up softball games with his fellow church family. He also spent a lot of time at the bowling alley and loved to go across the country to participate in tournaments. When he wasn’t working or bowling you could find him out on the greens trying to get that hole-in-one.

Brad was a hard core Alabama Crimson Tide fan and equally so fan of the Atlanta Braves. Brad was a firm believer in the Lord. We find solitude and peace knowing that he is rejoicing in heaven. So next time you hear the thunder roll, think of Brad up there bowling in Heaven’s Alley and know he finally got a perfect game!!

Other than his parents, Brad is survived by his wife, Brandi Sparks of Seale, AL; step-son, Carson Cox of Seale, AL; brother, Ben Sparks (Paula) of Smith Station, AL; half-brother, Scotty Sparks of Hazel Green, AL; nephews, Kolby Sparks of Phenix City, AL, and Blake Sparks (Marissa) of Baltimore, MD.

In lieu of flowers, love offerings for the food pantry may be sent to Silver Run Baptist Church at https://www.silverrunchurch.org/giving.

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02/16/2026

Linda Herndon

With deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of Linda Elizabeth Barr Herndon, devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, entrepreneur, artist, and friend. Linda, 82, of Columbus, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Piedmont Hospital North, with her loving family by her side.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 11, 2026, at The Vibe on Sixth, 1301 Sixth Avenue, Columbus, at 6:30 p.m. Friends and family are welcome to join us as we celebrate in music, memories, and fellowship surrounding the legacy of Linda.

Linda was born March 18, 1943, in Columbus, Georgia, to the late Dorothy Eunice Pearson Nelson. A lifelong resident of Columbus, she left an unmistakable mark on her community through her creativity, personality, and generous spirit.

Linda was the heart of her family — fiercely devoted, endlessly giving, and the steady foundation upon which generations stood. For 65 wonderful years, she adored and “spoiled” her beloved husband, Joe B. Herndon of Columbus, Georgia, building a life rich in laughter, loyalty, creativity, and adventure. They were true partners in every sense. Joe could often be found by her side helping restore treasures or build her latest funky art creation, turning the ordinary into something wonderfully unexpected. Together they rode their Harley-Davidson down open roads, fished off the dock of their beloved lake house on Pine Lake, and filled their years with stories that will live on in family lore.

As a mother, Linda was dedicated and hands-on, pouring herself into her children’s lives and the lives of others. She proudly led Girl Scout and Brownie troops, creating adventures, teaching independence, and hosting legendary sleepovers in the family’s Scottie camper — memories that still bring smiles decades later. She believed childhood should be magical, creative, and just a little bit adventurous.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Stephanie Herndon Crooke (Ray) of Columbus, Georgia. She was preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Robin Lynn Herndon, whose memory she carried in her heart every day.

As a grandmother and great-grandmother, she was pure joy and a cornerstone. She is survived by her granddaughter, Candice Crooke Tilson (Todd) of Columbus, Georgia; her grandson, Michael Brent Looney (Kelly) of Old Saybrook, Connecticut; and her treasured great-grandsons, Brooks Looney and Parker Looney, both of Old Saybrook, Connecticut. She was their biggest fan — celebrating every dream with contagious enthusiasm. Her encouragement was unwavering, her pride unmistakable, and her love immeasurable.

In Columbus, Linda was the owner and operator of The Vintage Years in Bibb City for many years, where she pioneered eclectic and funky vintage retail long before it became widely popular. Strolling through her store brought back treasured memories for countless clients who became lifelong friends. She had a gift for spotting the unusual and turning it into something meaningful. Her creativity extended beyond her shop — she crafted distinctive folk art from tin, pieces that found homes in local shops and restaurants and became part of the community’s charm.

If you mentioned “pets” to Linda, you were likely in for a long and enthusiastic conversation. She was a lifelong rescuer and protector of animals, especially cats, providing safe haven and love to countless animals over many decades. Her home was one of compassion and second chances.

She had a style all her own. She spiked her hair and wore it boldly — sometimes blue, sometimes purple, often pink in celebration of breast cancer awareness after heroically fighting and beating the disease. She faced cancer with grit and determination, embodying the strength that defined her life. When she looked at you with her beautiful blue eyes, you knew she was truly listening.

She was a lover of music from Creedence Clearwater Revival to Lady Gaga. She was the founding member of the first Elvis fan club in Georgia.

Her love language was giving — and cooking. No one left her home hungry, whether they intended to eat or not. She insisted on second helpings and full hearts.

Linda shared a beautiful, lifelong bond with her sister, Gayle Hilton (Bruce) of Columbus, Georgia. The two were best friends who spoke on the phone every single day — a ritual of laughter, storytelling, and unwavering support that sustained them both. She is also survived by her niece, Lauren Carroll (Heather) of Atlanta, Georgia; her nephew, Chad Carroll of Dallas, Georgia; and her great-niece, Emily Carrol of Dallas, Georgia.

Witty, tough, stubborn, sharp as a tack, and deeply loving, Linda was a great listener who made everyone feel seen. She was known for her guidance and wisdom to a younger generation, offering encouragement, perspective, and steady counsel. To many — not just her own grandchildren — she became lovingly known as “Grandma Willow,” a trusted source of warmth, strength, and advice.

Her legacy is one of devotion, resilience, creativity, individuality, and love in action. She leaves behind a family strengthened by her example, a community touched by her artistry and bold spirit, and countless lives warmed by her generosity.

She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered — in every shared meal, every rescued animal, every splash of unexpected color, every lake sunset, and every open road.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Paws Humane Society, 4900 Milgen Road, Columbus, GA 31907, in memory of Mrs. Linda Herndon.

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02/16/2026

02/12/2026

Linda Lou White

Linda Lou White, a cherished member of her family and community, passed away on February 10, 2026, in Columbus, Georgia, at the age of 87. Born on July 18, 1938, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and daughter of the late Claire Henry and Ruth Curtis Pickens. Linda's life was defined by her devotion to her family and her passion for connecting with others.

She was a proud alumnus of St. Marys High School, graduating in 1956, and continued her education at Marshall University, from which she graduated in 1958. Her educational background laid the groundwork for a life rich in experiences and relationships.

Linda embraced her role as a military wife with grace and resilience, supporting her husband, Major General (Retired) Jerry A. White, in their journeys together. She took great joy in her hobbies, particularly her love for playing Bridge with friends, which added countless joyful moments to her life. She was also a valued member of the Green Island Country Club, where she made lasting connections with fellow members.

Linda is survived by her husband, Major General (Retired) Jerry A. White of Columbus, Georgia; her daughter, Jane Ann Strickland (Robert) of Longs, South Carolina; her sister, Jane Young (Tom) of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; her grandchildren, Heather Koster, Joshua Lynch, Riley Hughes, Juliana White, and Jameson White; as well as her six great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy.

In her passing, she joins her beloved son, Jerry "Jay" White II, and her sister, Mary Ann Tebay, both of whom she deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Linda will be held on 11:00 AM, February 18, 2026, in the chapel of McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31907. Interment will be held following the service at 12:30 PM, at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery.

The warmth of Linda's spirit and the impact she had on the lives around her will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, family, and friendship will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

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02/12/2026

Major General (Retired) William Berry Steele

Major General (Retired) William Berry Steele of Columbus, Georgia died Saturday, February 7, 2026 at his residence.

Funeral Services will be held 10:00 AM, Monday, February 23, 2026 at The Inouye Field located at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, Georgia 31903 with full U.S. Army Honors. The family will receive friends following the services at the National Infantry Museum. Major General Steele will be laid to rest in his hometown of Lilly, Georgia. Following the funeral service, please join the family for a visitation to share memories of Major General William B. Steele at Heritage Hall located on the 2nd floor of The National Infantry and Soldier Center.

The only son of Wade Hampton Steele, Jr. and Frances Lucille Berry, William "Bill" Berry Steele was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on August 17, 1929. However, Bill grew up in rural middle Georgia near Lilly, Georgia, after his mother and father returned to Wade and Dora Steele's farm, his paternal grandparents, in the early years of the Depression. Bill attended Vienna High School and during his senior year he studied at Gordon Military High School in Barnesville, Georgia. Bill attended Gordon Junior College for two years and then graduated from the University of Georgia, cm laude, and was commissioned as a distinguished military graduate from the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry in the U.S. Army. He later attended the Navy Command and Staff College in Newport, Rhode Island, and the Army War College in Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania. In addition, he earned a master's degree in International Relations from George Washington University, in Washington, D.C. He spent 29 years in the Army, receiving numerous military decorations and awards, which include the Army Distinguished Service Medal, two Silver Star Medals, the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Meritorious Service Medals, seventeen Air Medals, the Bronze Star Medal with "V" for Valor, the Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Service and three Army Commendation Medals, as well as several foreign decorations.

Upon graduation, Bill Steele first trained in Fort Benning, Georgia, with the 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment where he was soon deployed to Schweinfurt, Germany. During his military career, he commanded at every level of troop command from platoon to division level. He commanded rifle companies and held staff positions in the 3rd Infantry Division, the 4th Infantry Division and the 82nd Airborne Division. In August 1967, Steele took command of the 5th Infantry Battalion (Mechanized) in Vietnam and later completed his Vietnam tour as Chief Of Staff of the 9th Infantry Division (Forward). From 1972 to 1974 he commanded the 197th Independent Infantry Brigade (Mechanized) at Fort Benning, Georgia. Finally, he served as Commanding General of the 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized) from 1976 to 1978 and took the division and supporting forces to Germany on a NATO maneuver in 1978.

Steele also handled officer assignments and school selections in the Infantry Officer Assignment Branch of the Department of Army; he was military advisor to the King's Royal Guard in Saudi Arabia; he taught at the U.S. Army Infantry School and the Army War College; he was Executive Officer and Senior Aide to the Army Chief of Staff, General William Westmoreland, and he was Deputy Commander of the U.S. Army Recruiting Command.

Following his retirement from the Army in 1979, General Steele joined Aflac, Inc. (American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus) in Columbus, Georgia. While there, he successfully served in both their marketing and administration capacities, with his last four years spent as Senior Vice President for International Operations. He retired from Aflac in 1994 but has continued to be active in Army-related matters, having been elected President of the National Infantry Association in 2011.

In 2012 Steele published My Journey, which retraces his life from rural Georgia during the Great Depression to his career in the military. The memoir features his personal sacrifices, triumphs, and tragedies, while ultimately it is about how proud he was to serve his country and to experience the joy and rewards of family life. His participation in the Christian community involved sharing time, skills, and resources to support others, engaging in outreach, and fostering personal spiritual growth through accountability and service.

Other than his parents, General Steele was preceded in death by his first wife, Virginia "Ginny" Nell Akin Steele and his son Wade Shannon Steele.

Survivors include his wife Sandra “Sandy” Cross Steele of Columbus, Georgia, son, Dr. William B. Steele, Jr and his wife Deborah of Monterey, CA., grandchildren, Brian W Steele, Marie S. Culpepper, William B. Steele, III, and Sara S. Ruiz, great-grandchildren, Elise Culpepper, Grace Steele, Sebastian Culpepper, Ryleigh Ruiz, William Steele IV, Christopher Steele, Bodhi Ruiz and Brooks Ruiz.

In Lieu of Flowers, the family request donations be made in memory of Major General William B. Steele to The Valley Rescue Mission 2903 Second Ave., Columbus, Georgia 31904 or to The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, Georgia 31904.

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