“They are not lost who find the light of sun and stars and God.”

REST IN PEACE

Shirley Steele, born in Selma, Alabama on April 9, 1939, was a   beloved daughter to Louis Gater and Mabel Steele.  She entered into eternal rest, at age 83, after a long illness on March 18, 2023.

She lived in Akron, Ohio and was a member of the community for over 50 years.  She graduated from East High School and, afterwards, married James Rufus Pruitt (who preceded her in death).  To this union, 3 children were born.

Shirley was a faithful member of the PTA at Stewart Elementary School and a former member of Apostolic Faith Church. She was a former employee of the Hilton Inn for many years.

She enjoyed spending quality time with her loving family, fishing, grilling, playing family games, gardening and planting flowers in her yard.  She also enjoyed traveling and walks in the park.

She is survived by her three daughters, Valerie (Donnie) Bland,    Dana (Terrence) Little and Voncia (Mohammed) Keita, all of Akron, OH; 9 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren; brother-in-law, Jimmy Hamilton; cousin, Odessa Webb, and a host of other relatives and friends.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.² He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.³ He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.⁴ Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.⁵ Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.⁶ Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

PSALM 23