Yvonne Q. Steele's Obituary
Yvonne Q. Steele
October 20, 1946 – August 3, 2025
Yvonne Q. Steele, 78, of Marydel, Delaware, passed away peacefully at her beloved farm on August 3, 2025.
Born in Bishopville, Maryland, on October 20, 1946, Yvonne was the daughter of the late Harris B. Quillen and Della Quillen. A proud graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, she went on to earn her degree in cosmetology.
After marrying her first husband, Wilmer Steele, the couple relocated to Dover, Delaware, where they started their family and founded Steele’s Pharmacy on South State Street. It was there that Yvonne’s lifelong passion for public service and community involvement first began to bloom.
Yvonne was a vibrant and tireless advocate, serving as a leader in numerous organizations. Some of her proudest accomplishments included her involvement with BPW (Business and Professional Women), ABATE (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education), and the creation of Gary’s Gang, a school-based educational program that brought joy and learning to countless children.
After years dedicated to the pharmacy, Yvonne boldly entered the home healthcare field while also launching her boutique, Selective Secrets—an endeavor that reflected her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Later in life, Yvonne found true joy with her beloved husband, Steve Fair. Together, they embraced every moment—attending music festivals, riding their Harley-Davidsons on weekends, camping in their travel trailer, and vacationing in Jamaica where they were married. They also treasured time at their beach home in Fenwick. Yvonne recently remarked that she wished she could have taken one more ride with Steve to Sturgis.
During this chapter, Yvonne began her distinguished work as a lobbyist, advocating for pharmacists, midwives, and psychologists across the state of Delaware. She was proud of the many legislative victories she contributed to and especially grateful for the lifelong friendships she formed in Legislative Hall.
Never one to slow down, Yvonne and Steve later fulfilled another dream when they purchased Krooked Antler Acres in Marydel. There, she lived out her passion for caring for others—especially her family and grandchildren—with love, cuddles, and endless home-cooked meals. Her kitchen was always open, even for midnight requests like fresh fried frog legs. Her deepest wish was to remain on her farm, and she was blessed to do just that.
Yvonne was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Steve. She is survived by her son Gary W. Steele, her daughter Jody S. Williams (Jim), her grandson Gage Williams, and her granddaughter Lauren Williams. She also leaves behind her sister Donna Breasure (Jeff), niece Courtney Costello (Chris), and nephew Ryan Breasure.
She was “Grammy” not only to her grandchildren but to many others whom she welcomed into her home and heart as her own. She will also be dearly missed by her loyal four-legged companion, Koenig, who was always by her side.
Per Yvonne’s request, no formal service will be held. Instead, a grand “party” and celebration of life will be planned at a later date in her honor. In her memory, the family will be establishing a scholarship supporting young women pursuing careers in business—a lasting tribute to her legacy of strength, service, and inspiration. Letters of condolences may be sent to http://www.traderfh.com
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