Dr. Donald Harry Steel

Dr. Donald Steel, “Don”, cherished family man, Professor Emeritus, Hall of Fame athlete, and award-winning gardener, passed away peacefully at his home in Adelphi, Maryland on June 22, 2024, at the age of 91. He was born on June 13, 1933, in Trenton, New Jersey.

Don was predeceased by his loving wife, Narissa Steel, his parents, James and Edith Steel, and his daughter, Jane Steel. He leaves a legacy of love and devotion to his family, including his son, James, daughter-in-law Michelle, his grandchildren, Donald, James, and Maximus, and his brothers Robert and Bruce.

A 1955 graduate of Trenton State College, Don excelled in three sports as a collegiate athlete for the Lions from 1951 until 1955. By the time he concluded his collegiate career, he had earned nine varsity letters in three sports. He was inducted into the school's Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004.

Don shined in the classroom at Trenton State University where he earned numerous selections to the Dean’s List. Following his junior year, he received a summer scholarship to study abroad, leading three “Experiment in International Living” groups in 1957, 1958, and 1960.

After Trenton State, Don continued his pursuit of education, earning his graduate degree at the University of Maryland and his PhD from Louisiana State University. He became a professor at the University of Maryland and was published in numerous national and international journals. Don was the 1984 recipient of the University of Maryland’s Service Award in recognition of his outstanding commitment to the people of the Maryland campus and was selected as the outstanding teacher in the College of Health and Human Performances in 1988. An innovator as well, Don was responsible for the development of a course in the undergraduate school called, "An Introduction to Sport Psychology." He was named Professor Emeritus after retiring. Teaching was one of his true passions and he made a difference in many lives, both as a classroom teacher and a graduate school advisor for both Master and PhD level candidates.

During his teaching career, Don continued to be active in tennis, basketball and badminton. As a tennis doubles player in the 1970s and 1980's, Don won numerous titles and trophies at both local and county tournaments, and continued to play tennis into his 80's.

Don was a devoted gardener, winning Prince George's County "Garden of the Year" on numerous occasions. Don and Narissa had a warm, loving relationship and were married for 67 years.