Obituary of Barbara A. Steagall

Barbara A. Steagall, 90, of Rome, passed away on Monday, September 16, 2024, peacefully at home.  She was born in Buffalo on October 22, 1933, a daughter of the late Elliot and Pauline (Smith) Lawson. She was a graduate of Martinsville (VA) High School and College of Nursing at the University of Rochester. On October 23, 1954, she was united in marriage to James Steagall, a blessed union of 67 years until his passing on June 24, 2021. 

Barbara was a Registered Nurse, beginning her career in 1954.  Shortly after arriving in Rome in 1963, she started as a part-time RN at Rome hospital.  In 1974 she became full time when the hospital selected her to head the new discharge planning coordination department where she continued until she retired in 1991. While working at Rome Memorial Hospital, she served as the President of the Nurses Union. 

She was an avid member of the First Presbyterian Church of Rome where she was a founding member of the Crafty Ladies.  Her true passions were realized through her ability to make unique cross stitch, crochet and knitted keepsakes for numerous friends and family. She will surely be remembered through her countless, one-of-a-kind gifts. She was proud to have introduced the Dewey Decimal system to her Church library. 

Barbara is survived by three daughters, Kim (Scott) Smith, Kelly (Vince) Laraia, and Holly (Tom) Scanlan; a son, Scott (Ann) Steagall; eight grandchildren, Jessica, Joshua, Garrett, Erin, Megan, TJ, Samantha and Ryan. She held a special fondness for her grand dog Frankie. She was predeceased by her sister, Katie Burdick.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no calling hours.  A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery. 

The Steagall family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to her loving caregivers and a special appreciation for hospice for making her comfortable in her final days.

In lieu of flowers, please instead consider a donation to the First Presbyterian Church, PO Box 33, Rome NY 13442.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome NY 13440. 

You may view the obituary and send a message of sympathy at www.nunnandharper.com.