Obituaries

Phyllis Jane Hayes-Steele, aged 80, from Dafter, passed away on November 23, 2023, at Ball Hospice House of the EUP in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan. Born on October 22, 1943, in Rapid River, Michigan, Phyllis was the daughter of Lawrence and Gertrude (Laviolette) Hayes. She graduated from Holy Name High School in Escanaba and later moved to Sault Ste. Marie in 1965.

In 1991, Phyllis married her best friend, James Steele, and subsequently retired from the Michigan Department of Corrections. Throughout her retirement, she cherished moments with the light of her life, her grandson Hayes. She devoted time to her gardens, and her family. Phyllis was a member of Holy Family Church.

Phyllis is survived by her husband, Jim, of Dafter; her daughter, Mary (Mark) Carlson-Lynch of Sault Ste. Marie; stepchildren Sharon Steele of Brimley, Michael (Jane) Steele of Jacksonville, FL, and Thomas (Kelly) Steele of Holly, MI. Her legacy includes grandchildren Hayes, MJ, Cole, Ellie, Paul, and Cody. Additionally, she is survived by her siblings, Julie Hayes Moe, Maggie (Bill) Kline, Peter (Ann) Hayes, and Michael (Heather) Hayes, along with her brother-in-law, Kirk Nigro, sister-in-law Anita Hayes and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents, sister Mary Nigro, brother William Hayes, and brother-in-law Arnie Moe. Phyllis will be laid to rest in Rapid River Cemetery in Rapid River, Michigan, May of 2024.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Holy Family Church in Barbeau, Michigan, or Ball Hospice House of Sault Ste. Marie. The Family Life Funeral Home will be assisting the family during this time.