Ina Mae Stewart Steele French

Ina Mae Stewart Steele French passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025, at the Yalobusha General Nursing Home in Water Valley, MS. Born on February 21, 1929, in Pine Valley, MS, she was the daughter of the late Alice Newman Stewart and Albert Mayford Stewart. Known for her nurturing nature, Ina Mae naturally took on the role of caretaker as the eldest sister. She dedicated many years to her work as a nurse aide in Memphis, TN, where she was employed by Baptist Hospital. Notably, she served as the nurse aide forMrs. Gladys Presley during her final days.

Throughout her career, Ina Mae also worked at Kay Cookie Co. in the 1960s, Donruss Co. in the 1970s, and Armour Packing Co. as well. In her spare time, she enjoyed various hobbies such as quilting, gardening, and maintaining her yard. Ina Mae was a Christian and also a member of Drivers Flat Baptist Church.

Ina Mae is survived by her son, Boyd R Steele Sr. (Sheron); daughter, Patricia A. Pratt (James); brother, Homer Newel Stewart; sister, Willie Raye Faulk (Clyde); five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her beloved husband and father of her children, Russell Steele, and her cherished second husband Leon French; brothers, Everette Pryor, Albert Stewart, George Stewart, Earl Stewart, Harold Stewart, Elton Stewart, Troy Stewart; and sisters, Dorthy Cardwell and Mary Helen Swanson.

Visitation is planned for Friday, August 22, 2025, in the Gardiner Room at Seven Oaks Funeral Home from 12:00 PM until 1:00 PM. Services will immediately follow at 1:00 PM in the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks with Rev. R.W. Moffett officiating. Burial will follow at the Providence Cemetery, Banner, MS.