06/02/2026
In September 1975, Ronald W. Steele built more than an insurance agency — he built a legacy
of service and a foundation for his family. As the first ERIE Agent on the eastern side of the Blue
Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Ronald founded Steele Insurance Agency with a guiding principle
that still defines the agency today:
“If I have helped one person each day, I will have done my job.
”
For 50 years, that philosophy has remained at the heart of everything Steele Insurance Agency
stands for: exceptional customer service, trusted guidance, and a genuine commitment to
protecting what matters most — family.
After Ronald’s passing in 2015, his wife, Alice Steele, continued carrying his vision forward with
dedication, compassion, and wisdom. She carried Ronald’s legacy alongside Betsey Johnson,
who has devoted herself to the agency and recently celebrated 37 years with the Steele family.
In 2025, Alice decided it was time to retire and step aside. With her retirement, a new chapter
began as their daughter, Rhonda Steele proudly stepped into the role of owner and Principal
Agent of Steele Insurance Agency.
For Rhonda, this agency is more than a business — it is family, legacy, and purpose. Having
grown up in the business and served within the agency since 2016, Rhonda brings both
experience and heart to her leadership. She is committed to honoring the legacy established by
her parents while guiding the agency into the future for generations to come.
Rhonda’s leadership extends far beyond the office walls. Deeply rooted in community service,
she has made a lasting impact through partnerships, sponsorships, charitable outreach, and
events that bring people together. From sponsoring Jouett Elementary School’s Field Day, to
providing an annual scholarship for a Patrick Henry High School graduate, to supporting The
Cut List and their coed baseball tournament benefiting individuals with Down Syndrome,
Rhonda continues to show her passion for helping others.
Her commitment to giving back has also earned recognition beyond the local community,
including a nomination through ERIE’s Giving Network Award and acknowledgment from 99.1
RVA for her dedication to serving and supporting the community.
For 50 years, Steele Insurance Agency has been built on service, family, trust, and community.
As Rhonda leads the agency into its next chapter, the mission remains the same: to protect
families, serve neighbors, and help one person each day. Rhonda Marie Steele
