David Lindsay Steelman

David Lindsay Steelman, 80, of Elkin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.

Born on September 20, 1945, in Forsyth County, David was the son of the late Frank Marion and Grace Bowman Steelman. He lived a life marked by dedication—to his family, his profession, his community, and his faith.

David was a proud member of a unique chapter in Appalachian history, graduating in 1967 from Appalachian Teachers College with a Bachelor of Science in Business Education, and then earning his Master’s degree in Business, Economics, and Accounting in 1968 as part of the first graduating class of Appalachian State University. His passion for education led him to begin his career teaching business and accounting at Davidson County Community College, where he also spent five years coaching basketball and mentoring students both on and off the court.

He later transitioned into a successful business career, serving as a customer service and accounts receivable manager for Brenner's Companies/Waste Management in Winston-Salem and Columbia, South Carolina. David went on to become a general partner at Crissman, Mendenhall, Steelman Insurance & Financial Services, where he dedicated 32 years to building and leading a thriving agency. His leadership spanned operations, accounting, personnel, and sales, earning him numerous accolades—including recognition as a top 25 agent with Auto-Owners Insurance Company for ten consecutive years.

A pillar of his community, David gave generously of his time and leadership. He served as president of multiple organizations, including the Tri-County Sertoma, Lexington Jaycees, Blue Ridge Life Underwriters, and the Elkin High School Boosters Club. He also contributed as a board member of Cedarbrook Country Club, the Appalachian State University Alumni Council, and the Yosef Advisory Board. His service extended statewide as an officer in the North Carolina Jaycees, where he was honored as JCI Senator #22647.

David’s commitment to service was widely recognized. Among his many honors were the 2016 Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce/Duke Energy Outstanding Community Service and Citizenship Award and the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, awarded in 1976. He also received the 1973 Outstanding Local President Award for growing the Lexington Jaycees to over 100 members for the first time in its history.

In his later years, David continued to make a lasting impact as Executive Director of the Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce, a role he held for six years. During his tenure, he was instrumental in expanding membership and strengthening the organization’s role in the community.

A devoted member of Elkin Valley Baptist Church, David served faithfully as a Sunday school teacher and budget director, exemplifying a life grounded in faith and service.

Beyond his professional and civic accomplishments, David took great pride in his family’s racing legacy with the Steelman Motor Company Race Team, which achieved success with notable drivers such as-Ralph Earnhardt (Dale Earnhardt’s father), Ned Jarrett, Bobby Isaac, Pee Wee Jones, Ken Rush, Shorty York and Curtis Turner. He was also a passionate supporter of Appalachian State athletics.

David was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Frank Marion Steelman, Jr.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 57 years, Janie Oliver Steelman; two daughters, Heather Steelman Abbott of Boonville and Holli Steelman Socin (Blake) of Brown Summit; four grandchildren, Allie Abbott Stanley (Nolan), Ashlynn Abbott, Steelman Socin, and Zeke Socin; and two great-grandchildren, Carter Rae Stanley and Tripp Scott Stanley. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Powlas of Little Mountain, South Carolina, along with several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of David’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Elkin Valley Baptist Church, with Rev. Stephen Robbins officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Elkin Funeral Service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Appalachian State University Yosef Club,425 Jack Branch Drive Boone, NC 28608 or to the David Steelman Scholarship at the Yadkin Valley United Fund, PO Box 593 Elkin, NC 28621

.David Steelman’s legacy is one of leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to others. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.