of Little Rock, AR

December 1, 1928 - February 7, 2008

The final chapter in the earthly life of Dr. Amelia Rose Steelman, of Little Rock, was penned on Thursday, February 7, 2008. Reminiscent of her entire life, that chapter was filled with grace, compassion, and quiet perseverance.

A retired professor of early childhood education and a lifelong student, she was born on December 1, 1928 in Dierks, Arkansas. Rose earned her bachelors degree from Arkansas State Teachers College, then went on to earn both a Masters in education and a Doctorate in Early Childhood Education at East Texas State University. She then returned to UCA, where she was a professor of Early Childhood Education until her retirement. Her influence will be felt for many years to come as generations of children are challenged and encouraged by teachers who were inspired by her passion for excellence in education.

Rose cherished traveling with her sister, Katrina, and time spent with her family. She enjoyed fishing, boating, camping, and relaxing with her children and grandchildren on Lake Ouachita and she always looked forward to an annual Mother's Day float trip on the Buffalo River.

Rose was preceded in death by her husband Dr. B. J. (Bob) Steelman, father Henry A. Sykes, mother Kittye May Lewis-Sykes, and brother Henry Sykes, Jr.

She is survived by sister Katrina Williams of Hot Springs; daughter Joy Pensinger and husband Jim of Hot Springs; daughter Kaye Coachman and husband Frank of Salado, Texas; son Mike Steelman and wife Fawnda of Little Rock; daughter Lisa McGuyer and husband Monty of Commerce, Texas; and son David Steelman and wife Susan of Conway; grandchildren Tacey Crum of Mesquite, Texas; Heather Lopez of Houston, Texas; Mary Frances Sellen of Chicago, Illinois; Jesse Steelman and Carli Steelman of Little Rock; Lance McGuyer, Josh McGuyer, and Emily Rose McGuyer of Commerce, Texas; Summer Steelman of Conway and great grandchildren Zane Worsencroft of Florida; Kayla Trammel of Mesquite, Texas; Noah Lopez and Gabriella Rose Lopez of Houston, Texas.

A memorial service will be held at 4:30 p.m., Sunday, February 10, 2008 at Highland Valley United Methodist Church, with Reverend Daniel Kirkpatrick officiating.

The family will receive friends from 3:30 until 4:30 p.m., Sunday at the church.

Memorials may be made in her memory to the Children's Library at Highland Valley United Methodist Church, 15524 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Chenal Funeral Home
13801 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR  72211
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com