Gene (Chip) Steele III

Gene (Chip) Cillman Steele III passed away Friday, December 15, 2023  at the age of 58.

Celebration of life:  Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 1800 W. Henderson Street, Cleburne, Texas 76033

Gene was born to Gene and Linda L. Steele in Waco, Texas.  He attended and graduated from Itasca High School.  Chip was a professional musician who played music across Texas with some of the best musicians and friends like Kelly Yagar, Stan Harnett, Steve Henderson and many more.  In time, he went on to the national stage with recording artists like Alan Roe with Torch Records, Gene Watson, and Doug Stone.  Chip played on many historic stages across the country like the Grand Ol’ Opry, Billy Bob’s, and Las Vegas just to name a few.  When Chip retired from the road, he was never short of gigs as bands would call upon him weekly.   Chip was a loving husband, son, father, grandfather, uncle and friend and will be deeply missed by us all.

Chip is preceded in death by his grandparents (Granny & Papa) Gene Cillman Steele Sr. and Sally Steele; and father, Gene Cillman Steele, Jr.

Survivors:  Wife of 9 years, Julie L. Steele; daughter, Cathryn Baird and husband, Joseph; daughter, Cassie Steele; mother, Linda Riddle Steele Alexander; sister, Laura Daniel and husband, Scott; sister, Lisa Steele-Shipp; brother, Glen Steele and spouse, Ning Jan January; grandson, John Baird; nephews, Nate Daniel, David Daniel, Sean Daniel, Miller Shipp, Morgan Steele and Kaden Slater; nieces, Christa Daniel, Megan Steele and Sofia Gonzales and spouse, Jp; numerous cousins, aunts and an uncle; and many friends.