Cleola “Dee” Stedman, 86, of Washington, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Dee was born on September 11, 1939, in Washington, Indiana, to Mary (Banta) Rink and Charles Rink. A lifelong resident of Daviess County, she built a life rooted in family, faith, and community. She was employed with Daviess Community Hospital, where she was known for her dedication and kind spirit.
Above all else, Dee cherished her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother. Her family was her greatest joy, and she took immense pride in every moment spent with them. She also had a special fondness for her beloved cats and delighted in her collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia, which reflected her warmth and love for simple pleasures.
Dee was a member of the Eastern Star and a member of Plainville Christian Church, where her faith guided her life and strengthened her love for others.
She is survived by her children, Dianna Allen of Washington; Charlie (Judy) Stedman of Elnora; Randy (Lisa) Stedman of Washington; and Billy (Angelia) Stedman of Washington; her sister, Patricia “Patty” Essig of Washington; as well as her precious grandchildren, Ryan (Ashley) Davis; Cameron (Lenzie) Allen; Collin (Brooke) Allen; Bret (Ashton) Allen; John Stedman; Kayla (James) Gardner; Chasity (Zeffrey) West; Kelly (Kristen) Stedman; Missy (Daniel) Chestnut; Tyler Martin (Melissa Padgett); Brandy Hardiman; Billy Stedman; Alex Stedman; and Evan Stedman; and 28 great-grandchildren, who will forever carry her love in their hearts.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Charles Rink; her husband, Bill Stedman; her grandchildren, Audra and Scott Bath; her brother, Randall Rink, and his wife, Rose; her sister, Evelyn McLemore, and her husband, Deb; her son-in-law, Tim Allen; and her brother-in-law, Jim Essig.
Dee will be remembered for her gentle heart, her unwavering devotion to family, and the love she shared so freely with everyone she met. Her legacy will continue through all who were blessed to know her.
Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00pm on Thursday, February 5, 2026 and 11:00am-1:00pm on Friday, February 6, 2026 at Ed L. Lee Mortuary.
Funeral services for Dee will be at 1:00pm on Friday, February 6, 2026 at Ed L. Lee Mortuary with Pastor Steve Sims officiating.
Following the service, she will be laid to rest next to her husband in Plainville Cemetery.
Ed L. Lee Mortuary is honored to be entrusted with the services of Cleola “Dee” Stedman.
