Richard Ray “Tooter” Steelman passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 29th, two days before his 64th birthday. Beloved husband and best friend to Sandra Steelman and father to Richard Ray Steelman, Jr. and wife Amanda, and Christy Lynn Chamblee and husband Ryan, all of Lincoln County, he will be greatly missed.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Charles “Doc” and Mary Elizabeth (Moore) Steelman of Lincoln County. Besides his wife and children, he leaves behind three grandchildren, Brittany Steelman, Matthew Steelman, Hannah Chamblee, two step-grandchildren, Madison McCormick and Chase McCormick, four siblings, Charles Ray Steelman, Jr., Joe Lynn Steelman, Ronnie Jordan, Carol Lowe, many proud nieces and nephews, and his loyal Border Collie, Shadow. He leaves behind countless friends and loved ones who were family in his heart.

Richard served 28 years in the US Air Force, including war-time service in Vietnam and time in Saudi Arabia after the Kuwaiti conflict. He was a highly decorated officer, retiring as a Major, and a member of the Medical Service Corp. After retirement, he worked in medical administration and finally opened his own business in promotional products and sign design.
Richard was a member of Parks City Baptist Church. A jack of all trades, his interests ranged from computers to hunting, but his main hobby was making people laugh. Even during his long fight with MDS/Leukemia, he never lost his wonderful sense of humor and fighting spirit. His life was a gift to everyone around him, and he will always be remembered with a smile.

A memorial service will be conducted at the Parks City Baptist Church on July 13th at 3:30 pm.

Higgins Funeral Home is assisting the family of Richard Ray Steelman.