Diane Ferguson Steelman, 76, of Vero Beach, passed away on Jan. 3, 2015, peacefully with her loved ones by her side.
She is survived by her son Steven Brooks Steelman (Maru); daughter Deana Marchant (Todd); grandsons Aiden, Darian, Damien, Ritter, and Tanner; and her adored brother Major Roy J. Ferguson (Trudy).
She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Geraldean Ferguson, two sisters, and one brother.
Steelman was born and spent the early years of her life in Bridgeton, N.J., where she was the oldest of five children. She loved the farm and riding her horse, Big Boy, while accompanied by her dog, Blackie. The family moved to Winter Park, Fla., where she graduated from Winter Park High School. She was a majorette and even twirled fire.
She went on to Florida State University and Stetson University where she was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. She and her husband, J.B. raised their children in Winter Park. She worked as a real estate broker and property manager for many years. She was a member of Winter Park Racquet Club and Interlachen Country Club where she was a competitive golf and tennis player.
In 1998, Steelman moved to Vero Beach, where she worked part time and volunteered her time with many worth-while causes. Most meaningful to Steelman’s time was her work with The Willow School and the Sunshine Physical Therapy Center for Children, where she served on the Board of Directors. She was passionate about building the Children’s Therapy Center’s success.
She was a member of the Community Church of Vero Beach, where she volunteered in the Sunday school. Steelman loved to travel and was adventurous. She loved the outdoors and had a sincere appreciation for the beauty of nature. She was kind, giving, and loyal to her family and friends, who will miss her very much, but will treasure the beautiful memory she leaves behind.
There will be a memorial service Friday, Jan. 9, 2015, at the Community Church of Vero Beach at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Sunshine Physical Therapy Center for Children, In Honor of Diane Steelman, 1705 17th Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960, or The Willow School, In Honor of Diane Steelman, 950 43rd Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960.