Obituary of Charles Whitley Steele

Charles Whitley Steele was born January 1, 1947 to the late Christine Farrior Steele and Johnnie Steele. He departed this life on December 1, 2018, with his loving wife by his side.

Charles, affectionately known as “Hot Dog” by family and friends, was born and raised in Greensboro, NC.  After high school Charles attended North Carolina A & T State University. It was at A&T where he met his wife, Ms. Josephine Goode.

From 1968-1970, his studies were cut short when he was drafted to serve the U.S. Army in the Vietnam war.  As a soldier in Vietnam, Charles received several decorations including the National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal w/2 Bronze Service Stars; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal; Combat Infantryman Badge; Army Commendation Medal; Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry w/Palm; Sharpshooter (Rifle) and 2^nd Class Gunner (M60 M).  In 1969, after an injury by grenade, Charles received the distinguished Purple Heart award before being honorably discharged. 

After serving in the army, Charles moved back to Greensboro to continue his studies at A&T and eventually received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.  Upon graduating, Charles and Josephine eventually moved to East Orange, NJ, married and continued their relationship for 52 years.

In 1976, Charles worked at the US Post Office in Livingston, NJ and became a clerk, who never missed a day in 40 years.  Before retiring in 2013, Charles befriended a group of coworkers, who remained a support system throughout his life.

A lover of soul food, jazz and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Charles would spend his days grabbing a bite to eat or hanging out in his man cave listening to jazz (with the tv on mute) or watching his beloved sports.  

Along with his sense of humor, Charles passed on his love of music, soul food and basketball to his and Josephine’s only child, Nikki. 

Preceding him in death were his parents, Johnnie Steele, Christine Steele Mitchell, and step father, Zachariah Mitchell.  He was also preceded in death by sister, Gwen Steele and brother, David Mitchell.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Josephine Goode Steele; dear daughter, Nikia “Nikki” Hammie (Tyrin); granddaughter, Kari Hammie; one sister, Claudia Hall; nephew, Robert Hall (Priscilla); niece, Sonja Hall and a host of great nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends.

Lovingly submitted by,

The Family