Dorothy Steele

Dorothy “Dot” Burkholder Steele, 100, of Greensburg, passed away at home surrounded by her family on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Born on November 11, 1925, in Pleasant Unity, she was the daughter of the late Thomas B. and Carrie H. Ritenour Burkholder. A longtime member of First Presbyterian Church of Greensburg and the Bell Telephone Pioneers, Dot began her career with the Bell Telephone Company during World War II as a switchboard operator and remained with the company until her retirement.

She was known for her warmth and many talents, especially as an avid and remarkably lucky bingo player, a wonderful cook, and an exceptional baker. Her rhubarb pies and Christmas cookies were treasured by all fortunate enough to enjoy them. Dot’s gentle spirit and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David K. Steele; son, D. Scott Steele; brothers, J. Kenneth Burkholder, Thomas B. (June) Burkholder Jr., and John W. (Jack) Burkholder; and sister, Helen Burkholder Walton Sharp. She is survived by her daughter, Jeanne S. Smith, and son-in-law, Delver B. Smith; daughter-in-law, Donna (Metz) Steele; and sister-in-law, Hazel Steele. She is also survived by her granddaughters, Felicia A. (Smith) Fosmire (Michael), Tain C. (Smith) Schlesman Short (William), and Melissa E. (Smith) Daniels (Matt); great-grandchildren, Adria J. (Schlesman) Crusan (Chandler), Cambrie J. Short (Zack Sieg), Carys A. Short, Henry Fosmire, and Cory Fosmire; great-great-granddaughter, Gianna Crusan; and many nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed by her family, her special bingo friend Jan, and all who knew and loved her.