Burleen Elizabeth Steele Sexton

Burleen E. Steele Sexton, 95, of St. Joseph, passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2019 at Royalton Manor in St. Joseph. A Celebration of Life Service will take place on Friday, August 9, 2019, at 12 PM at First Baptist Church, 902 Broad St., St. Joseph, with Pastor Marlo Fritzke officiating. Burial will follow at Coloma Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family an hour prior to the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church – St. Joseph or The North Berrien Senior Center – Coloma. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Burleen was born on May 20, 1924, in Paris, TN, to Lee & Bertha (Barnett) Ball. She graduated from Puryear High School in TN. She married Douglas Steele who preceded her in death in 1953 and later married Ford Sexton who preceded her in death in 1986. For many years, Burleen worked in the factory at Whirlpool Corporation, retiring in 1988. She was a proud member at First Baptist Church and was involved in many church events and activities. Burleen was a natural care-taker. Her passion in life was raising her family and always making sure everyone had a smile on their face. Her kindness, generosity and beautiful smile will forever live on with everyone who knew her. Burleen is survived by her children, Sandra (Brian) Kraemer of Coloma and Ricky (Marilyn) Steele of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Karla (Joe) Romano, Ryan (Melissa) Steele, and Doug (Beth) Kraemer; and great-grandchildren, Daniel, Christopher, Maverick, McKinleigh, Ronnie, Kris and Rain. Burleen was preceded in death by her parents, Lee & Bertha; husbands, Douglas Steele & Ford Sexton; and siblings, Orville, Edgar, Mason, Elroy, Colie and Jane.