April Lea Steele was born on, appropriately enough, April 9, 1982 in Elk City, OK. She was the second child of Harry & Judy Steele. Harry, now a retired Game Warden, and Judy, now a retired speech pathologist, have 3 daughters - Megan, April, and Mindy.

While April was the middle child, she was anything but a middle child. She was endlessly kind, funny, talented, and brave. She effortlessly made sure to include those that didn't feel included and reached out to those that others may have forgotten. There was no act of kindness that was too small or too big for April. She readily gave of her resources and her time.

Growing up, she always made sure to play with kids that would've been ignored or left out. She didn't care about your color, religion, or social status, but just wanted to be your friend. And she never asked for anything in return. In fact, she would often turn down rewards or benefits so that others may get them. She had no need for such things.

April wasn't always in a good mood, but it always seemed like she was happy. Even when doing things she didn't like - like running sprints for softball in high school or working double shifts during the holidays - she rarely complained. She found the contentment and joy in whatever had to be done.

As an adult, April had a wry half smile and a quick chuckle. But once you got her going, she had an infectious laugh that came from deep within her. She would often laugh so much that her face would turn bright red, tears would fall down her face, and everyone would be sore from laughing with her. And nothing made her happier than entertaining her nephews and nieces. Her love, care, and concern for them is something they will feel for the rest of their lives.

Not one to miss a sunrise or a sunset, April seemed to squeeze every moment out of everyday. It was inspiring to see the way that she embraced the small things in life whether it was taking in a movie, walking around the park, spending time with family or friends, or even the satisfaction of a hard workout. April lived life the way it was meant to be lived and never allowed for an idle moment.

April was also an incredibly hard worker. While she held many jobs, she brought her best to each one of them. Whether she was a teacher, coach, nanny, mentor, or manager, April wasn't above any task or job and she often went above and beyond what was asked of her.

While April's life was one filled with joy and enthusiasm, she also faced her own battles. She courageously wrestled with the darkness of depression throughout her adult years. Through the support of her family, near and far, April found the strength to persevere. Even in her darkest moments, she never gave up.

April's unwavering faith in Jesus Christ played a vital role in her journey. Thanks to the life changing ministry from Hope is Alive, she recommitted her life to Christ, finding a secure salvation and the promise of eternal peace. April's love for Jesus fueled her strength and provided her with the hope and courage to face any challenge that came her way. It is because of Christ's work on our behalf that we have the hope and promise of eternal life, and the peace of knowing we will see her again!

And while we rejoice that she is still alive in Christ, we will miss her physical presence with us more than we can express. April is survived by her mom and dad, Judy & Harry Steele; her sisters, Megan Glancy and Mindy Steele; her nephews Tate and Dyson; her nieces Payton, Tinslee, and Blakelee; her Uncle Jim & Aunt Pam (Pim and Jam), her Aunt Jo (Jobo) & Uncle Frank, her Aunt Janet & Uncle Terry, her Uncle Johnny & Aunt Courtney, her Aunt Carole & Uncle David, her Aunt Kay & Uncle Kent, her Uncle Keith; and her cousins Chris & Jen, John & Leigh, Kate & Conner, Mariah & Jacob, Daniel, Rebecca, Mandy & Will, and Pepper & Ricky. She was preceded in death by her beloved Grammy Peggy & Grandpa Marley, Grandma Martha & Grandpa Harrison, Aunt Sally, Uncle Chris, and Aunt Beverly.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hope is Alive in honor of April's legacy of helping others in need. Please see the link below.

"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5