Jan Elizabeth Steele, 74, of Cleveland, N.C., passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at Iredell Memorial Hospital in Statesville, N.C.

Jan was born on July 10, 1949, in Iredell County, N.C., to the late Hubert Earl Steele and Eunice Elizabeth Walker Steele. Jan dedicated over two decades of her life serving at the VA Hospital in Salisbury, N.C. After retiring from the hospital, Jan continued to lend her nurturing spirit as a caretaker. Loving and kind-hearted by nature, family was at the center of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. Animals held a special place in Jan’s heart whether it was caring for her own pets or admiring and greeting the pets of others. Jan had a particular fondness for puzzles and word games; they were not only a source of entertainment but also a way to challenge her and keep her mind sharp. She also enjoyed traveling, being out in the fresh air by taking long walks and photography.

She is preceded in death by her parents; infant sister Carolyn Sue Steele; and brother-in-law Bill Mann.

Left to cherish her memory are her sisters, Sherry S. Koontz (Jake) and Wanda S. Mann; brothers, Donald H. Steele (Shirley) and David H. Steele; and 12 nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at South River Church in Woodleaf, N.C., with burial to follow at the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 until 2 p.m. prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to South River Church.

Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.