The city of Fayetteville recently took a moment to honor the memory of former Mayor Ken Steele, who passed away on December 19, 2024. Steele, a pillar of the Fayetteville community, was commemorated at Thursday's City Council meeting in the presence of family and friends. His involvement in local politics was longstanding, including several years on the Fayetteville Planning & Zoning Commission, a stint as City Council member from 1994 to 1999, and his mayorship until 2011. The council paid tribute to Steele's dedication to the city through various initiatives and developments that benefited the community.
Ken Steele's journey began on July 18, 1940, in Upper Darby Township, Pennsylvania. According to Fayetteville's tribute, he was born into a loving family as the fifth child to William Robert Steele and Mary Regina (MacDonald) Steele. Ken, often referred to as "Mr. Iron" by his students, was passionate about history and education, which drove him to once complete a semester as a student teacher. Steele's sense of duty soon called him to serve in the Navy, leading to a decorated military career during the Vietnam War where he piloted P-3 aircraft and to eventually earn multiple service medals.
The late mayor's post-military life saw a shift as he took to the skies for Delta Airlines, allowing him to balance his love of flying with precious family time. Steele's hometown involvement didn't taper off with his aviation career; he continuously engaged in local governance, eventually leading Fayetteville for three terms as mayor. Notable accomplishments from Steele's tenure include the establishment of Fayetteville's first traffic circle, the allocation of land for Patriot’s Park, and the beautification of Jeff Davis Avenue. Steele's leadership was also recognized at the state level as he served as the President of the Georgia Municipal Association in 2010-2011.
Steele, who was known to cherish his role as "Big Daddy" to his seven grandchildren, passed away after courageously battling health issues. Supported by his wife Debbie of 60 years, his three children and grandchildren, Steele's life was celebrated at Mowell Funeral Home on January 3, with a service led by Pastor Hugh Kirby, according to his obituary. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Steele’s memory to New Hope Baptist Church or to Semper Fi & America’s Fund—a gesture reflecting his lasting impact on both his faith community and the veteran community.
