Donna Kay Steele

Our beloved Donna Kay Steele, 68, of Benton, KY, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on April 18, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Hospital, surrounded by her family. She was born on October 6, 1957, in Paducah, KY.

She was a devoted mother and cherished “Meme” who poured her heart into her family, always placing their needs above her own.

Donna spent 25 years as a dedicated bus driver, a role that reflected her reliability, strength, and deep care for others. Afterward, she followed her passion by owning and operating a boarding facility, where her love for animals and strong work ethic carried her through until retirement. She was known for her caring heart, warm presence, and sharp sense of humor. Donna could make people laugh easily, love deeply, and stand her ground when it mattered—her stubbornness was simply another form of her strength. She loved her family fiercely, valued her friendships, and had a deep, natural bond with animals.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Timmons; her parents, James “Dickie” Timmons and Martha Timmons.

Donna is survived by her husband of 44 years, James “Jimmy” Steele; her daughter, Rachel Steele; her sons, Brock Stahl (Kimberly), Brian Stahl (Jamie), and Jamie Steele (fiancé, Shelly); her grandchildren, Taz Steele, Danielle Murphy, Molly Stahl, Sarah Stahl, Nathan Stahl, Maggie Steele, Logan Stahl, and Rylee Steele; and three great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Kathy Ford, along with extended family, friends, and loved ones who will miss her deeply.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, with Mike Rogers officiating. Interment will follow at Fooks Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Collier Funeral Home, 211 W 5th St, Benton, KY 42025.