On July 24, 2026, the world lost a remarkable soul, Dovie Jean Collett Vowell-Steele, who passed away peacefully after a brief illness on July 24, 2026 at Belleville Memorial. Born on August 11, 1942, in Baxter, Kentucky, Dovie was a force of nature, fiercely dedicated to her family and community. She was the beloved daughter of the late Shelby Clyde Collett and Della Fletcher Collett and was preceded in death by her siblings Shelby Jr., Pauline, Robert, Vivian, Carrie, and Clara Anne. Also waiting her arrival in heaven, nephews David “Frog” and Greg and niece April.
Dovie’s legacy continues through her cherished children, Edward, Tamara, and Eric. Her joy was amplified by her grandchildren, Tara (Secilia), Tatum (Stephanie), and Richard (Lauren), and her five great-grandsons, Lennon(Rai’Annah), Odin, Kai, Arlo, and Ellis, who will forever carry her love and wisdom. She also leaves behind a close-knit extended family, including her nephews and nieces Richard (Donna), Dean, Christopher, Charles Shelby, Amanda, and her great-nephew Mark (Stephanie), along with her great-great-niece Ava. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Allison Cowden, her devoted caregiver, whose compassion and dedication were a great comfort to Dovie in her final days.
Dovie’s academic journey took her to Berea College and Belleville Area College, where her passion for learning was evident. Her professional life was as diverse as it was impactful. From 1962 to 1974, she served as a civilian with the Department of the Army and Department of the Air Force. During her tenure at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, she worked as an aide to Hans Fichtner on the Saturn and Apollo Programs from 1962 to 1966, contributing to the groundbreaking achievements of the space race. Her career path took a compassionate turn when she became a Registered Nurse in 1977, dedicating over three decades to caring for others until her retirement from Touchette Regional Hospital in 2013.
Known for her vibrant personality and impeccable style, Dovie was a fashion diva who never left the house without looking sharp. Her love for sports, particularly college basketball and the NFL, Tennis and Golf was infectious, and she could often be found cheering passionately for her favorite teams. An active member of St. Henry’s Catholic Church in Belleville, IL, Dovie volunteered her time and talents to numerous community and charity organizations, embodying the spirit of service.
Dovie’s life was a testament to courage and kindness. She was a woman ahead of her time, unafraid to challenge social norms and steadfast in her opposition to racism and homophobia. Her warmth and generosity touched countless lives, always offering a helping hand to those in need, appreciating every kindness she received in return.
A private ceremony will be held to honor Dovie’s legacy in her hometown of Baxter Kentucky.
Though Dovie may no longer walk among us, her indomitable spirit and enduring love live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered, as her story continues to inspire those she leaves behind.
