Louise Ellen Morefield Steadman, of Front Royal, VA, affectionately called “Lou” by many, age 68, died peacefully on December 14, 2014, after a faithful fight with cancer. Louise, born May 15, 1946, in West Virginia, was preceded in death by her parents: Harvey Howard Morefield and Bertha Alice Meade Morefield; and by her sister, Freda Reedy.

Louise is survived by her adoring husband: Richard W. Steadman; and her brothers: James Morefield, Sr. of Edinburg, VA and Frank Morefield of WV; sons: Scott Steadman of Winchester, VA and Jeffrey Steadman of Chantilly, VA; and their wives: Kristy Steadman and Sarah Steadman, respectively; five grandchildren: Emily, Samantha, Carter, Camryn, and Ty; and a number of other loving relatives, close friends, and church family.

In 1967, Louise married the love of her life, Army Chief Warrant Officer Richard W. Steadman (retired), and soon began a life abroad living in Germany, Japan, and several US destinations as a dedicated wife and mother. While abroad, in addition to raising their two sons with enthusiastic interest in their activities and learning, Louise along with Richard, began square dancing while in Germany. As a talented round dance cuer, and Richard a natural square dance caller, the two maintained an active and meaningful social calendar that served them and their friends for over 35 years. In 1986, following Richard’s retirement, Louise and her family made their home in Front Royal, where they continued their square dance activities with the Rivermont Ramblers and the Panhandlers Square Dance Club. Louise felt such love, friendship, and support from her square dance family.

Louise thoroughly enjoyed teaching the young. This passion for teaching & learning lead her to complete her Bachelors in Education at James Madison University in 1999. Before and following her studies, Louise worked in special education classrooms for Warren County Public Schools. She loved her work and felt purposeful in children’s lives. After retiring from the classroom, Louise took every opportunity to engage her grandchildren in learning and discovery.

Among her many talents and interests, Louise was masterful at sewing and baking. Her handmade garments and linens were often gifted to her family and friends, and her delicious and stunningly decorated cakes (often themed for the recipient) punctuated uncountable family or friend birthdays, weddings, and important celebrations. While Louise intrinsically enjoyed these hobbies, she most enjoyed sharing her gifts to make others feel special and loved. Louise especially made her grandchildren’s birthday cakes every year, creating a legacy they will lovingly remember.

Louise was an active member and treasured volunteer of Calvary Episcopal Church in Front Royal, VA. Louise served on the Alter Guild and took great joy in that important service. Louise was also a joyful member of the Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) for many years. BSF and the close relationships she had with her group were very important to her, and the ladies of BSF were an inspiration to her.

There will be a church service and Memorial Garden interment to honor Louise and her beautiful life at Calvary Episcopal Church at 3 p.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2014.

In lieu of flowers, the family thanks you for memorial donations sent in her name to the Alter Guild at the church.

Checks can be made out to:
Calvary Episcopal Church
Memo: c/o Alter Guild in honor of Louise Steadman

Mail to:
Calvary Episcopal Church
c/o Alter Guild in honor of Louise Steadman
Weber Hall
11 West 2nd Street
Front Royal, VA 22630

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