Alfonza Steadman Sr., 72, went home to be with the Lord on July 5, 2025, at his residence.

Alfonza, one of five siblings, was born June 8, 1953, in Gadsden, Alabama, to Clarence and Ella Mae Steadman.

Alfonza completed his high school education and made his home in Akron, Ohio, where he built a remarkable life centered around family, faith, and his many talents.

A skilled carpenter, Alfonza took great pride in his craftsmanship, creating and building functional pieces with his hands and expert use of tools. He had a lifelong passion for working on cars, spending hours under the hood diagnosing and repairing problems. He also loved fishing, finding peace and joy on the water. His mechanical skills and creative spirit led him to become an inventor with an innovative mind that was constantly looking for ways to solve problems and improve the world around him. Among his inventions were the Rocket Launcher and other helpful tools.

Alfonza was deeply devoted to God and actively involved in his faith community. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and relationships with others. He served as an Elder and was called on to preach, sharing God’s word with his congregation. He attended services regularly and found great joy in fellowship with his spiritual family.

Above all, Alfonza loved his family deeply. He was a devoted husband to Judy Steadman and a loving father who cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed watching them grow, celebrating their achievements, and being a source of wisdom and support. Alfonza was known for his generous heart, his great sense of humor, and his ability to fix just about anything. He was the person family and friends turned to when they needed something repaired, a problem solved, or simply a listening ear.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Ella Mae Steadman, and his brother, James Joseph Steadman.

Alfonza leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved wife, Judy Steadman; his children, Retsyn Deshawn Owens of Akron, Ohio; Ursula Harris of Cleveland, Ohio; Alfonzo (Ebony) Steadman Jr. of Akron, Ohio; Apryl (Lenwood) Beverly of McDonough, Georgia; and Alfonza Steadman IV of Akron, Ohio; step-children, Richard Collier of Akron; Durray Collier of San Diego, California; Tawunna Collier of Akron; and Rossia Collier of Akron; 26 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; siblings, Clarence (Latonya) Steadman Jr., Wilfred (Tanisha) Steadman, Venell Steadman, and Darlene Steadman; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends who will forever miss his creative spirit, generous heart, unwavering faith, and the love he shared with everyone around him.

The family appreciates your prayers during this difficult time. Condolences may be sent to 897 Berghoff St., Akron, Ohio 44311.