Freddie Joe Steele, 85, a life-long resident of Laurel Hill, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2022, at home, in the presence of family.

Freddie was born on July 23, 1936, to Cortez and Eunice Steele in Laurel Hill.  He spent his childhood fishing and playing with cousins. He briefly attended the University of Florida, then returned to Laurel Hill to help his father run 'Cortez Steele Son and Grandsons Service Station' and open a car repair shop.

Freddie held many occupations, including Laurel Hill City Clerk, volunteer fire fighter, mechanic, insurance salesman and heavy equipment operator for Okaloosa County.

Freddie will be remembered for his calm demeanor, upbeat humor, and extraordinary faith.  He was a lifelong Florida gator fan. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and singing in the church choir. But above all, he was happiest in the company of his family.

Freddie was preceded in death by his parents, Cortez and Eunice Steele, and his son, Robert "Mike" Steele. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Steele, his children, Joe (Starr) Steele, Chris (Terri) Steele, Shannon Adams and Sharon Adams, 11 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Services will be held Saturday, March 19, 2022, at 4:00 pm at Evans Funeral Home in Florala, Alabama with Pastors Donnie Cadenhead and David Williams officiating. Family visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, with internment following the service at Almarante Cemetery.

You may honor Freddie's life by planting a tree or donating to the Alzheimer's Association at alz.org.